Goa to Host National Fatima Meet and Marian Congress in July
Goa, June 23, 2026: Goa is preparing to welcome hundreds of pilgrims, clergy and religious from across India for the 12th Indian National Meet and the 2nd Goa Marian Congress, scheduled to be held from July 15 to 17 at the Pilar Pilgrim Centre.
Organised by the World Apostolate of Fatima, the three-day event will focus on the theme, “Learn, Live, and Share the Message of Fatima in a Synodal Church,” highlighting the relevance of the Fatima message in the life and mission of the Church today.
The gathering is expected to bring together bishops, priests, religious and lay faithful from different parts of the country for prayer, spiritual formation and reflection centred on Marian devotion and evangelisation.
A major highlight of the Congress will be the veneration of the sacred relics of Saint Francisco Marto and Saint Jacinta Marto, two of the young visionaries associated with the apparitions of Our Lady of Fatima. The Indian National Pilgrim Virgin Statue of Our Lady of Fatima will also be present throughout the event, offering pilgrims a special opportunity for prayer and devotion.
Among the bishops expected to attend are Bishop Simiao Fernandes and Bishop Joseph Susainathan. They will be joined by Bishop Fulgence Tigga, Bishop Francis Tirkey and Bishop Fabian Toppo, who are scheduled to participate in various liturgical celebrations and formation sessions.
The programme will feature a range of spiritual and organisational activities, including formation talks, a Rosary Procession, the Crowning of Our Lady, the Investiture of the Brown Scapular, National Council Elections and daily Eucharistic celebrations.
According to the organisers, the Congress aims to deepen devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary and inspire participants to live and share the message of Fatima more actively within their parishes and communities.
Registration for the event will remain open until July 5.
To register, visit
goa.worldfatimaindia.com/mariancongress or
contact +91 8459318425 / Goa.WorldFatimaIndia@Gmail.com.
Organisers have invited devotees from across the country to participate in what is expected to be one of India’s largest Marian gatherings of the year.
By Catholic Connect Reporter
Thousands Across Goa Spend Night in Prayer for World Peace
Panaji, June 6, 2026: Thousands
of Catholics across the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman united in an all-night
vigil for world peace from the evening of First Friday, June 5, to the dawn of
First Saturday, June 6, responding to a call for prayer, penance and reparation
inspired by the message of Fatima.
Organised
by the World Apostolate of Fatima (WAF) – Goa Archdiocesan Division, the annual
Devachea Mogachem Zagronn (Night of
Love) was observed for the third consecutive year, drawing clergy,
religious and lay faithful from across the archdiocese. The vigil sought to
foster spiritual renewal while interceding for peace in families, communities
and the wider world.
More than 80 parishes
participated in the initiative, gathering at 10 deanery host churches across the archdiocese.
Hundreds of devotees filled the venues throughout the night, with organisers
reporting strong participation from families, youth, senior citizens and parish
groups.
The
vigil centred on Eucharistic Adoration, meditative recitation of the Rosary and
the First Saturday devotions associated with the Fatima apparitions.
Participants also embraced the spirit of penance by sacrificing sleep and
remaining in prayer through the night. Special prayers of reparation were
offered to the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary for sinners, the souls of the
departed, Goa and the world.
Organisers
noted that all deanery centres followed the same programme and prayed the same
prayers simultaneously, creating a visible expression of unity across the local
Church. Parish priests, deans, religious sisters and lay faithful joined
together in what many described as a witness to the synodal journey of the
Church, marked by communion, participation and shared mission.
The
initiative was held with the approval of the Archbishop of Goa and Daman and
the Auxiliary Bishop, and was coordinated through the Archdiocesan Pastoral
Council, deanery structures and parish executive committees.
As
the vigil concluded at daybreak, each deanery consecrated itself to Our Lady of
Fatima and the Immaculate Heart of Mary. Participants departed with a renewed
commitment to prayer and peace, carrying forward the spirit of the night’s
observance.
The
World Apostolate of Fatima – Goa Archdiocesan Division expressed gratitude to
parish priests, deans, WAF unit leaders and the faithful whose dedication and
participation contributed to the success of the archdiocese-wide vigil.
By
Catholic Connect Reporter
https://catholicconnect.in/news/thousands-across-goa-spend-night-in-prayer-for-world-peace
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WAF Units Across Goa Mark Holy Saturday with First Saturday Devotion
Goa, April 6, 2026: Parish units of the World Apostolate of Fatima (WAF) across Goa observed Holy Saturday with solemnity on April 4, integrating the First Saturday Devotion into the liturgical silence of the day. The initiative brought together the faithful in a spirit of reparation and quiet companionship with the Blessed Virgin Mary, who, according to Christian tradition, remained steadfast in faith on the first Holy Saturday.
Across parishes, the observance was marked by prayerful gatherings featuring meditative reflections, the Seven Sorrows Rosary, the Litany, and devotional hymns. Apostolic members, parishioners, clergy, youth, and catechism children participated actively, creating an atmosphere that blended reverence with communal engagement.
In several communities, young people and children assumed leadership roles in guiding the devotions under the direction of parish coordinators, fostering deeper involvement among the faithful. Clergy—including parish priests, assistant priests, religious brothers, and seminarians—led reflections on the Seven Sorrows of the Blessed Mother, encouraging participants to enter more profoundly into the mystery of her suffering and fidelity.
Attendance varied from small, intimate groups to larger congregations exceeding a hundred participants, reflecting widespread enthusiasm for the devotion. WAF members played a central role in animating the services, while parishioners joined in significant numbers, offering a collective expression of prayer and reparation.
Many parishes incorporated elements of the Church’s official prayer alongside the Seven Sorrows devotion, complemented by visual and meditative aids that deepened contemplation. The observances were conducted with simplicity and sincerity, underscoring a shared commitment to Marian spirituality.
As the universal Church kept the solemn silence of Holy Saturday, WAF parish units across Goa bore witness to a living tradition of devotion—one that emphasizes presence, consolation, and reparation as expressions of enduring faith.
By Catholic Connect Reporter
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Goa Hosts Marian Congress Focused on Fatima’s Call and Synodal Unity on 15-16 Jul 2025
The World Apostolate of Fatima (WAF) in Goa organised a two-day Marian Congress on 15–16 July 2025 in Pilar, marking 70 years of its devoted presence in this blessed region. The gathering drew an enthusiastic crowd, with over 150 participants joining the overnight programme and nearly 300 faithful attending the second-day service and Eucharistic Celebration. The atmosphere radiated devotion and a sense of shared purpose—a vibrant tapestry woven from individual prayers and collective hymns. Among the many spiritual highlights was the participation of His Eminence Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrao, Archbishop of Goa & Daman.
Dr. Fr. Jason Fernandes spoke on “Parish Renewal with Mary”.
Rev. Fr. Kennet Teles, Episcopal Vicar for the South Zone, celebrated the Eucharist, delivering a homily centred on the core message of Fatima. His words resonated deeply, reigniting a renewed commitment to the Blessed Mother’s call.
Rev. Fr. Jose Fernandes, Parish Priest of Our Lady of Fatima Churcg, Cotto de Fatorpa, followed with a reflection on “Living the Fatima Message in the Modern World”. After each talk, participants prayed a Decade of the Rosary with meditations from WAF-Goa’s published reflections, fostering a rhythm of collective prayer and contemplation.
The second day included Hour of Holiness, a 10-step Ignatian-inspired prayer initiative by WAF. Rev. Fr. Pio Almeida, Spiritual Advisor of WAF-Goa, spoke on “Understanding the Power of the Meditative Rosary”, and
Rev. Fr. Sevile Antao ofm Cap delivered a talk on “The Brown Scapular – A Sign of Marian Protection”. Both offered deep insights into Marian spirituality.
Dr. Celcio Dias, former International Secretary of the World Apostolate of Fatima, reflected on “December 10, 1925 – The Forgotten Apparition That Completes Fatima – 100 Years”, shedding light on its overlooked significance.
Mr. Lester De Mello, Chairman of WAF Goa Archdiocesan Division and National Centre, led two workshops titled “Growing WAF Parish Units” and “Growing Prayer Cells in Your Community”, offering practical guidance for strengthening lay participation and mission. These drew from the Synodal Assembly’s final document and the CCBI’s Journeying Towards a Synodal Church: Mission 2033, aligning grassroots action with the Church’s broader vision.
At the heart of the congress was the Midday Eucharistic Celebration, presided over by His Eminence Cardinal Ferrao and concelebrated by several parish priests. The experience of worship was deeply moving. His Eminence’s homily emphasised the importance of praying the Daily Rosary for peace, echoing Our Lady’s Fatima message and inspiring many to renew their devotion.
A special felicitation ceremony honoured former WAF-Goa Executive Committee members who served faithfully across seven decades. Gratitude filled the room as the current generation recognised the legacy of those who paved the way. Outstanding WAF Parish Units were also acknowledged from among the nearly 70 active units across the Archdiocese, their vibrant evangelisation efforts met with visible pride and appreciation.
The congress concluded with the veneration of the Relics of the Fatima Saints—a moment of silent reverence and unity. More than a commemorative event, the congress stood as a living expression of faith, devotion, and the timeless call of Our Lady of Fatima.
This Marian Congress beautifully embodied the spirit of synodality, demonstrating the Church's call for walking together. Organised primarily by the lay faithful of WAF-Goa, it highlighted their initiative, leadership, and commitment. “This harmonious collaboration at the WAF Marian Congress 2025 between the laity and the clergy truly brought the vision of a synodal Church to life,” remarked Mr. Lester De Mello. As participants departed, they carried with them a renewed commitment to Our Lady’s message and the mission of peace she entrusted to all.
By Lester DeMello, Chairman WAF Goa Unit
HISTORY OF 70 YEARS OF WAF IN GOA.
The WAF in Goa began
in 1954, founded by Monsignor Servulo Conceicao Guilherme
Antonio Jose da Piedade, a native of Chinchinim,
born on March 14, 1910. A deeply
spiritual man, he served faithfully until his passing on March 19, 1996, at the Clergy Home in Porvorim. I recall meeting
him there in my youth, where he handed me a book on the Devotion to the Holy Face of Jesus, which I still pray today.
Fr. Servulo often
said, “Recite the Rosary well, daily, and
you will have nothing to fear.”
recalls our members Agustino Dias and Dionisio Fernandes who are also
with us today. His efforts gave significant momentum to the Fatima devotion in
Goa. Under Portuguese influence for over 450 years, Goans were already familiar
with Our Lady of Fatima and the
names Lucia, Francisco, and Jacinta.
Fr. Servulo, appointed
by Patriarch of East Indies Rt. Rev. Dr. Jose da Costa
Nunes, served as the founding president of the Blue
Army (as it was then called). The devotion flourished across Goa, with
parish-level processions, rosary circles, and homes welcoming the Pilgrim Virgin Statue.
Marian author Tony Fernandes (now in Canada) recalls
candle-lit processions to the grotto at Monte
de Guirim, and the timeless Konkani hymn ‘Maie Kakutin Bhorlele’,
composed in 1949 when the statue from Portugal first arrived, still resonates
in churches and homes today.
Some milestones that
testify to this lasting devotion:
● 1949 – Statue of Our Lady of Fatima brought to Goa
● Oct 11, 1954 – Blue Army launched in Goa by Fr. Servulo
● 1978 – Goa hosts 4th All India Blue Army Marian Congress
● 1954–1993 – Pilgrim Virgin Statue visited Goa six times
● 1999 – Goa becomes India’s National Centre for WAF
● 2000 – First National Council Meeting held in Goa
● 2010 – WAF receives permanent approval from the Holy See
Following Fr.
Servulo’s illness rendering him incapable, WAF saw a lull until Dr. Alvaro da Costa, a dentist from
Mumbai, revived it after settling in Goa in 1987. Though known for promoting the Garabandal apparitions, he
became instrumental in restoring WAF activities. It was he who introduced me to
the Apostolate in 1995.
Other stalwarts who
strengthened the movement include Fr.
Anastasio Gomes, Mr. Ubaldo Duarte, Eng. Sebastiao Pinto, and several
committed chairpersons such as Joe
D’souza, Rosa da Costa, Augusto Monteiro, Fr. Adolfo Viegas, Fr. Antonio Couto,
Fr. Cromacio Mascarenhas, Eng. J.S. Pinto, Dr. Celcio Dias, Francis Barreto,
and Anthony Viegas.
Mr. Francis Barreto
documented the Apostolate’s history and wrote now nearly 75 books on Mother
Mary and other devotions and organized large-scale events including the Mini Marian Congress (2016) and the Centenary Celebrations (2017) at Sé Cathedral, along with welcoming the WAF International President and Secretary
in 2018 at the Basilica of Bom Jesus.
Dr. Celcio Dias, as
International Secretary (2008–2022), was present along with other WAF-Goa’s
members during WAF’s elevation to a
Public Association of Pontifical Right, in Rome in 2010.
Under the chairmanship
of Mr. Anthony Viegas (2015-18) ,
several of the above-mentioned mega events were successfully organized. A major
milestone during this period was the generous donation by our heaven-sent, Mr.
Tony Rodrigues who we have subsequently given the official Title of “Patron of
the WAF-Goa” , gifted WAF Goa a 2BHK office space in a luxury complex on the
iconic Ribandar hillock. We also fondly remember and thank the late Fr.
Conceicao D’Silva, our former Spiritual Advisor and then Parish Priest of
Taleigao, for his vital role in making this connection possible.
Today, under our
Chairman Mr. Lester D’mello, with
the spiritual guidance of our Spirutal Advisor Fr. Pio Almeida, the World Apostolate of Fatima Parish unit , that promote the First Saturday Devotion and Meditative Rosary has spread to over 60 parishes in Goa.
We are ever grateful
to Msgr. Servulo da Piedade for
planting this seed over 70 years ago, and to Dr. Alvaro da Costa and many others who have now passed May God grant eternal peace to their souls and
we acknowledge the roles played by
Francis Barretto, Dr. Celcio Duas, Anthony Viegas and others who watered
it with their love and dedication.
Compiled by: Miss Shirley Fernandes and Mr Lester D’mello
Goa: Jubilee of Marian spirituality on 31 May 2025
WAF members offered flowers at 5.15 pm symbolizing love and devotion to Mother Mary and place them in a basket.
At 5.30pm five WAF members led a Meditative rosary.
At 6.30 pm a beautifully conducted mass led by WAF members and the choir, filled the church to capacity.
At 7.30 pm A vibrant procession ,WAF members with Lanterns and Angles accompanied by Fr. and Our Lady.
Children joyfully participated in cutting the cake.
Type of Prayer : 7.00 am Mass followed by Povitrtaiechem Vor.
No. of attendees in the beginning : 50
People joined to lead prayers : 15 + Choir ( Marian hymns)
♡ Dress code : Blue and white.
♡ Decor : Floral, blue - white table decor.
♡ Angels procession. ( Salve)
♡ Fellowship ( served tea & cake , snack ).
♡ WAF banner & Legion of Mary Flag.
Type of Prayers : Nhiallacho Ters Miss & Pursanv.
No. of Attendees: Beginning we had 80, then it goes to 160+.
Special: Procession after Mass & get-together
We dressed 3 childern as Lucy Jacinta & Francisco.
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Father accompanied us for the povitrtaechem hor. God bless him and his good work.In the beginning Fr spoke on Mother Mary.
WAF banner was also displayed.
This morning, the parish community gathered in devotion and fellowship.
This was followed by a procession and meditative Rosary, offering prayers and reflections in unity.
Parishioners then came together for a joyful get-together, sharing in tea, snacks, and fun-filled games, strengthening the bonds of our community.
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These 9 letters we pinned to 9 members in each group. We had 2 groups participating. Each group had a leader and we had a referee and the game organiser.
And each group had to assemble as the word called out eg. Mary, Day, Maria etc. we had 9 words called out or 9 rounds. Which ever group assembled first was the winner and given points.
Type of Prayer: 5 pm
Started with small Procession with WAF members and few Parishners singing and bringing mother Mary in the church ️
Full hour of Devotion prays.
End with nice hymns of mother Mary.
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Followed by Mass...
Small fellowship with cake & tea...
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Everything went well..good praises.
Type of Prayer - Povitrtaiechem Vor, uprant Mis
Type of Prayer: Nhiallacho ters uprant mis
Number of attendees in the beginning : 20 middle 50+ before mass 100+
Anything special organised for the day: small procession before mass .WAF members 6 + 2 Fathes + liturgy readers + Alterservers sorry couldn't take video of this
Type of prayer: Provitrachem vor. Started at 4.00 pm.
5 Mysteries followed by Mass with a total of 18 parishioners including celebrating their Birthday today.
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