Nearly 28000 Unite in Faith for the Archdiocesan Walking Pilgrimage 2025 in Goa

Br. Malvino Alfonso OCD; Pictures Joseph Fernandes –

On the first Sunday of Lent, March 9, 2025, the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman hosted its 7th Annual Walking Pilgrimage, known as Bhavarthachi Yatra, drawing nearly an impressive 28,000 faithful from across the region. This spiritual event, held at the Old Sancoale Church, marked a significant moment of unity and reflection for the Catholic community in Goa.

The pilgrimage began at 2 a.m. from five designated starting points: Bambolim, Neura, Cansaulim, Verna, and Vasco. Participants walked approximately 10 kilometers to reach the Old Sancoale Church, where they gathered for a day of prayer and celebration. The early morning start allowed pilgrims to reflect on their spiritual journey under the stars, setting the tone for a day filled with devotion and contemplation.

Upon arrival, the faithful participated in Adoration to the Blessed Sacrament led by Fr. Xavier Braganza from Desterro Parish at 5 a.m. This was followed by a Eucharistic celebration presided over by Archbishop Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão. The Mass was concelebrated by several priests, including Bishop Simião Fernandes, Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman, and Fr. Kenneth Teles, Parish Priest of Sancoale.

Bishop Simião Fernandes delivered a homily on the theme “As Pilgrims of Hope, Let us proclaim the Good News.” He emphasized the importance of embracing the Word of God as a source of strength to overcome life’s challenges. Referencing Pope Francis’ Lenten message, Bishop Fernandes encouraged the faithful to journey with hope, both within themselves and alongside others, especially those on the peripheries highlighted by Pope Francis in his Bull of Indiction (a formal document that proclaims the Jubilee Year, issued by the Pope of the Catholic Church).

Archbishop Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão also addressed the gathering, urging the faithful to be generous towards those in need during this Jubilee Year. He encouraged parishes to establish or support a Good Samaritan Fund to actively assist those less fortunate, embodying the spirit of hope and compassion.

This year’s pilgrimage held special significance as it coincided with the Jubilee Year, a time of spiritual renewal and reflection. The Cross was a central symbol, with each starting point featuring a Cross to remind participants of Christ’s sacrifice. Scenes from the Passion of Christ, presented by youth from various parishes, further emphasized the importance of reflecting on Christ’s journey.

The event was a testament to the strong community spirit within the archdiocese. Various groups, including the St. Luke Guild, Nurses Guild, and youth from Goa’s parishes, played crucial roles in organizing the pilgrimage. The Diocesan Pastoral Secretariat released a book titled “Kuttumbamni Utsovik Khursachi Bhett ani Somudayamni Khursachi Vatt,” which was launched by Archbishop Ferrão.

As the faithful departed in deanery groups, many were invited to spend quiet time with Jesus, reflecting on their journey and the lessons learned. The Archdiocesan Walking Pilgrimage, initiated in 2019, aims to help participants understand the value of suffering, spread Christian joy, seek God’s grace in challenges, and encourage personal conversion. This year’s event was particularly poignant, aligning with the Jubilee Year’s themes of hope and renewal.

The success of the pilgrimage was a result of the tireless efforts of the Committee for the Archdiocesan Walking Pilgrimage and numerous volunteers. As the faithful returned home, they carried with them a renewed sense of purpose and hope, embodying the spirit of pilgrims on a shared journey of faith.