Team Goemkarponn
Miramar: Stella Maris Chapel at Miramar was formally elevated to the status of a Church on Tuesday, becoming the 175th parish of the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman in a significant milestone for the local Catholic community.
The solemn Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Archbishop Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão in the presence of clergy, religious leaders, dignitaries and a large gathering of the faithful. Among those present were Chancellor Fr Romeo Monteiro, Panjim Deanery head Fr Francisco Dias, and Fr Zeferino D’Souza, who has been appointed as the first Parochial Administrator of the newly formed parish.
In his homily, the Archbishop described a parish as a “living Church” and urged the faithful to deepen their spiritual lives through prayer, participation in the sacraments, and active community engagement. He emphasised the importance of fostering values of love, care, mercy and forgiveness, while calling on parishioners to be witnesses of faith and instruments of peace.
The elevation marks the culmination of years of steady growth for the Miramar community, which began as a chapel under St Inez Parish. Church officials noted that the transition reflects not only infrastructural development but also the strengthening of faith and unity among parishioners.
Fr Zeferino D’Souza, in his address, termed the occasion the result of “years of unwavering faith and collective effort” by clergy, parishioners, benefactors and well-wishers. He acknowledged the contributions of past chaplains and the continued support of Church leadership in realising the long-standing aspiration.
The formal erection decree was read out by Fr Romeo Monteiro, following which official documents were signed by the Archbishop. A commemorative coffee table book chronicling the chapel’s journey was also released.
Church authorities said Stella Maris Church is expected to serve as a centre for prayer, community life and service, guiding future generations in faith.
