The confreres of the Salesian Province of Panjim-Konkan (INP) came together at Don Bosco Provincial House, Odxel, Goa, to celebrate and felicitate its jubilarians, whose lives stand as radiant testimonies of God’s fidelity and their steadfast “yes” to His call on August 26, 2025.



This year’s jubilarians included Father Tomas Fernandes, Diamond Jubilee of First Profession, Father Loddy Pires, Diamond Jubilee of First Profession and Golden Jubilee of Ordination, Fathers Wilfred Fernandes, Leandro Gracias, and Avil Rodrigues, Golden Jubilee of First Profession, Father Anandkumar Noronha, Silver Jubilee of Ordination, Brother James Marcus, Silver Jubilee of Perpetual Profession, and Father Santaremend Lopes, Silver Jubilee of First Profession.



The celebration began with a solemn Eucharist presided over by Father Loddy Pires, the first Provincial of Salesian Province of Panjim-Konkan. Addressing the gathering of Salesians, Daughters of Mary Help of Christians, family, and friends, he invited all to join in thanksgiving he said, I thank the Lord for His fidelity to us, and to Our Blessed Mother Mary for guiding our steps, and to Don Bosco and Saint Joseph Vaz for inspiring and leading us through our mission to God.

In the homily, Father Wilfred Fernandes reminded the faithful that jubilee celebrations are not about counting years but honoring countless moments of faith and dedication, each jubilarian’s life testifies to God’s faithfulness. Despite challenges and struggles, God’s sustaining grace has always strengthened and accompanied the jubilarians, enabling them to serve God’s people, especially the young.

Following the Eucharist, the felicitation programme highlighted the achievements and contributions of each jubilarian. Provincial, Father Clive Telles, Provincial, expressed heartfelt appreciation, acknowledging their years of generous service and leadership within the Church and the congregation. Citations of appreciation and gratitude were presented to the jubilarians. Special remembrance was made of Father Anand Noronha and Fr. Leandro Gracias, who were unable to be present as they continue their missionary service in Papua New Guinea and Sri Lanka respectively, reflecting the missionary zeal that marks the Salesian charism.



The cultural programme, emceed by Clyde Antao, added vibrancy to the occasion, with the pre-novices presenting a lively fusion dance that delighted the assembly. A short musical performance of Goan mandos on the wind instruments added a local flavour to the celebration. The day concluded with a fraternal meal, highlighting the family spirit and spirit of communion that is typical of Salesians.

The jubilee celebration was a profound reminder that vocation is sustained not by human effort alone, but by the enduring faithfulness of God, who calls, strengthens, and accompanies His servants through the years of their consecrated life and mission.