Youth and parishners of Our Lady of Fatima Church, Fatorpa at night vigil
The Don Bosco Youth Services (DBYS) organized an overnight Lenten Pasch for the youth and parishioners of Our Lady of Fatima Church, Fatorpa, Goa, centered on the theme, Pilgrims of Hope: Rooted in Prayer, an event aimed to foster spiritual growth and deepen participants' relationship with God, on April 5, 2025.
The vigil led by Director, DBYS, Father Austin Fernandes, supported by Father Ronald Vaz, Cleric. Sherwin Carvalho, Jolton D’Costa, Leha Fernandes, and Benroy Cardozo, began at 9:30 p.m. with the hymn to the Holy Spirit, setting a reflective tone for the evening. Father Austin Fernandes delivered an insightful talk on the significance of confession, emphasizing its role in spiritual renewal. As part of this session, Benroy Cardozo and Jolton D'costa shared heartfelt testimonies about their personal experiences with the sacrament of confession, inspiring participants to embrace this practice.
Sharing of testimonies at night vigil at Our Lady of Fatima Church, Fatorpa
Following the talk, Father Fernandes and Father Ronald Vaz engaged the attendees with a series of action songs and interactive games that fostered camaraderie and enthusiasm among the youth and parishioners. At 11:15 p.m., the focus shifted to adoration led by Father Vaz, which included praise, worship, and moments of reflection. During this sacred time, blessings were imparted to all present, with special prayers dedicated to the youth.
After a brief interlude, participants were divided into pairs to prepare reflections and prayers for the Stations of the Cross while Father Fernandes and Father Vaz conducted a separate talk for parishioners. The youth animated the Stations of the Cross by sharing their reflections and prayers, creating a profound spiritual experience for all attendees.
Father Fernandes in his second talk spoke on the importance of the Holy Eucharist, highlighting its centrality in Christian life. This session was enriched by additional testimonies from Jolton and Benroy, who shared their experiences of encountering Christ through the Eucharist.
The Night Vigil concluded with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist at 4:30 a.m. This marked a fitting end to an evening filled with prayer, reflection, and spiritual renewal. The event witnessed active participation from parishioners and youth alike, who expressed their gratitude for this opportunity to deepen their faith during Lent.
