Sunil D’Cruz –
Mumbai witnessed a vibrant gathering of over 800 devotees on January 21, 2025, as they congregated at Fr. Agnel Ashram in Bandra to commemorate the 156th birth anniversary of Venerable Fr. Agnelo D’Souza. This significant event followed nine days of Novena, a time dedicated to prayer and reflection leading up to the celebration.
The theme for this year’s festivities was “Inspired by Ven. Fr. Agnelo, let us be Messengers of the Good News.” The main celebrant of the Eucharistic Celebration, Most Rev. Rethna Swamy, Bishop of Ahmedabad, eloquently highlighted the virtues of Fr. Agnelo during his homily. He remarked, “The man of prayer preached the gospel through his personal life. Ven. Fr. Agnelo was ready to help the poor and the needy at all times. He was kind like Jesus. He was true to his name ‘Agnelo,’ which means lamb. He was meek and humble, yet he roared like a lion when he preached the Good News.” His legacy continues through the Pilar Fathers, who are dedicated to serving marginalized communities.
The Eucharistic celebration was co-celebrated by several dignitaries, including Rev. Fr. Saturnino Almeida, General Councillor of the Society of Pilar; Rev. Fr. Savio Coutinho, Provincial Superior of the Mumbai Province; Rev. Fr. Tomy Thomas, Provincial Superior of SVD Mumbai Province; and Rev. Fr. Valerian D’Souza, Superior of Fr. Agnel Ashram.
Prior to the Eucharistic service, attendees were treated to a delightful cultural program featuring performances by students from Fr. Agnel School in Vashi and Ambernath, along with an inspiring musical presentation by the Balbhavan boys from Bandra. These performances added a festive spirit to the day’s proceedings and showcased the talents nurtured within the Ashram’s educational institutions.
Venerable Fr. Agnelo D’Souza was born in Anjuna, Goa in 1869 and became a prominent figure within the Society of Missionaries of St. Francis Xavier (SFX), commonly known as the Society of Pilar. His dedication to intercession for devotees has made him a beloved figure among many who seek his guidance and blessings. During this celebration, prayers were offered for his early canonization, reflecting the deep devotion held by his followers.
Fr. Agnel Ashram itself is a renowned charitable institution located in Bandra, Mumbai, founded under the inspiration and guidance of late Fr. Conceicao Rodrigues. It serves as a shrine housing the relics of Ven. Fr. Agnelo and attracts thousands daily from various backgrounds seeking spiritual solace and intercession.
The Ashram is not only a place for worship but also plays a vital role in education and community service through its various initiatives, including schools, industrial training centers, polytechnics, and engineering colleges across Mumbai and beyond.
This year’s celebration was particularly poignant as it brought together individuals from diverse walks of life united in their admiration for Ven. Fr. Agnelo’s teachings and humanitarian efforts. The atmosphere was filled with joy and reverence as devotees shared stories of how Fr. Agnelo’s intercession has positively impacted their lives.
As part of the ongoing legacy of Ven. Fr. Agnelo, community service remains at the forefront of activities organized by the Ashram. The Pilar Fathers continue to uphold his mission by providing support to marginalized sections of society through various outreach programs.
In addition to spiritual observances, this year’s celebration also emphasized social responsibility among attendees, encouraging them to embody the principles taught by Ven. Fr. Agnelo in their daily lives as messengers of goodwill and compassion.
The day concluded with a renewed commitment among attendees to carry forward Ven. Fr. Agnelo’s message into their communities—spreading kindness, humility, and service to those in need.
As Mumbai continues to evolve as a melting pot of cultures and beliefs, events like these serve as reminders of shared values that transcend individual differences—fostering unity through faith and service.
The celebration at Fr. Agnel Ashram not only honored a revered figure in Catholicism but also reinforced community bonds through shared worship and cultural expression—an event that resonates deeply within Mumbai’s rich tapestry of religious diversity and social commitment.
As devotees left with hearts full of gratitude and inspiration, they carried with them not only memories of a joyous occasion but also a renewed sense of purpose aligned with the teachings of Ven. Fr. Agnelo D’Souza—a legacy that continues to inspire generations in their quest for goodness and service towards humanity.
