NEWS

Panjim-Konkan Province Honours Jubilarians for Lifelong Service
The Salesian Province of Panjim-Konkan (INP) gathered at Don Bosco Provincial House, Odxel, to celebrate the life and vocation of its jubilarians, whose years of consecrated service stand as a testament to God’s enduring fidelity.
This year’s jubilarians included: Fr. Tomas Fernandes (Diamond Jubilee of First Profession), Fr. Loddy Pires (Diamond Jubilee of First Profession and Golden Jubilee of Ordination), Frs. Wilfred Fernandes, Leandro Gracias, and Avil Rodrigues (Golden Jubilee of First Profession), Fr. Anandkumar Noronha (Silver Jubilee of Ordination), Br. James Marcus (Silver Jubilee of Perpetual Profession), and Fr. Santaremend Lopes (Silver Jubilee of First Profession).
The celebration began with a solemn Eucharist presided over by Fr. Loddy Pires, the Province’s first Provincial. In his message, he expressed gratitude to God, the Blessed Virgin Mary, Don Bosco, and St. Joseph Vaz for guiding their missionary journey. Preaching the homily, Fr. Wilfred Fernandes reminded the assembly that jubilees are not about counting years but cherishing countless moments of faith, perseverance, and service.
A felicitation programme followed, during which Provincial Fr. Clive Telles praised the jubilarians for their years of dedication and leadership. Special remembrance was made of Fr. Anand Noronha and Fr. Leandro Gracias, who continue their missionary service in Papua New Guinea and Sri Lanka.
The event concluded with a cultural program featuring a fusion dance by pre-novices and Goan mandos performed on wind instruments, followed by a fraternal meal. The celebration highlighted the Salesian spirit of joy, communion, and missionary zeal.