By Molly Fernandes
Old Goa, Aug 1, 2022: Cardinal-elect Filipe Neri Ferrao, Archbishop of Goa and Daman, has urged Jesuits and their collaborators to listen, discern and respond to God’s call and become true followers of Christ.
The cardinal-elect was speaking during a solemn Mass July 31 at Bom Jesu Basilica in Old Goa that concluded the Ignatian Year celebrations of the Jesuits of the Goa province.
The Goa archbishop said Pope Francis has asked Christians to become synodal members of the Church, who like Jesus constantly listen in total docility to the Spirit. “May we all respond to the call of Pope Francis and continue to make the Church, a truly synodal Church. That we may experience communion, promote participation, and focus on the mission to proclaim the good news of Jesus,” said the cardinal elect, who presided over the Mass.
Jesuit superior general Father Arturo Sosa called for celebrating an Ignatian Year from May 20, 2021 to July 31 this year. May 20, 2021, marked the 500th anniversary of Saint Ignatius’ conversion. On that day, five centuries ago, Ignatius the soldier was struck by a cannonball at the Battle of Pamplona. He was then transformed into Ignatius the pilgrim who eventually founded the Society of Jesus or the Jesuits.
The Jesuits celebrate July 31 as the feast of Saint Ignatius. This year, the day marked the 400th anniversary of the canonization of Saint Ignatius and Saint Francis Xavier, his prominent disciple.
The cardinal-elect was assisted at the Mass by 44 priests, including Goa provincial Father Roland Coelho and Father Patricio Fernandes, the rector of the basilica.
The theme chosen for ‘Ignatian Year’ was ‘Seeing all things New in Christ.’
After the Mass the Jesuits felicitated Cardinal-elect Ferrao with a shawl. The provincial thanked the cardinal-elect for his support and guidance.
On the occasion, Father Apollo Cardozo released his book, “When Goa Celebrates,” giving a copy to the cardinal elect.