Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: In a heartwarming display of gratitude and love, the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman organized a special Christmas Outreach Programme for its dedicated church employees. The event, which took place on 30th December, 10.30am, at the St. Joseph Vaz Retreat Centre, Old Goa, was a gesture of appreciation for the tireless service of those who often work behind the scenes in the church community.
The outreach event, brought together a diverse group of employees representing Church office assistants, sacristans, cooks, grave diggers, and gardeners—individuals whose efforts play an essential role in the daily operations of the churches across Goa. These workers, many of whom work quietly without seeking attention, were honored for their unwavering service throughout the year.
The occasion was graced by the presence of Archbishop Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrao, who warmly addressed the gathering, and Auxiliary Bishop Simão Fernandes, who also joined in the celebrations and gave the vote of thanks. Both bishops expressed their deep appreciation for the employees’ dedication and reminded everyone of the true spirit of Christmas—selflessness, compassion, and service to others.
“Our work Glorifies God and enhances the beauty of Creation and our work can also sanctify us…it indeed contributes towards the good of the Church and society” said Cardinal Ferrao during his speech. He also acknowledged the invaluable contributions of the employees saying “ you as church employees, through your hard work and service contribute a lot to the Church and its community and we are grateful to you”. Cardinal also stressed on the dignity of all types of work and reminded them that the church respects them and the job that they do.
The event was also an opportunity for the church leaders to encourage the employees, many of whom come from humble backgrounds, to continue their service with dignity and honour. Auxiliary Bishop Simão Fernandes expressed, his gratitude by thanking God for this day. He especially acknowledged the initiative of Archbishop for starting this Outreach programme 4 years back. He took the opportunity to acknowledge and appreciate the church employees for playing a significant role in the Church and expressed that the faithful are grateful to them for their service.
The event began with a prayer service thanking God for His blessings and by lifting up all human labour to Him. After the welcome address by the Archbishop all participants had fellowship games and partook in a festive meal. Some gifts and tokens of appreciation were shared to the employees. The Archbishop and Auxiliary Bishop also took the opportunity to personally thank each worker, acknowledging their individual roles in the church and their significant impact on the lives of the faithful.
The gathering was marked with a sense of gratitude and belongingness, with some employees sharing personal stories and experiences. This Christmas Outreach Programme is part of the Archdiocese’s ongoing efforts to acknowledge the contributions of various people towards the church. The initiative also aims to foster a deeper sense of belonging and connection among all members of the archdiocese.
As the celebration concluded, the employees left with grateful hearts, knowing that their hard work had not gone unnoticed, and their service was deeply appreciated by the leaders and faithful of the Archdiocese of Goa.
The archdiocese of Goa and Daman organizes such outreach programmes in its Parishes as well as institutions , specially during Christmas. The Archbishop and other church authorities also make it a point to organize and be part of such meaningful outreach programmes.
