More Information on the Four Provinces

Delhi Province
Kolkata Province
Mumbai Province
Goa Province

The Society of Pilar is a Society of Apostolic Life which pursues the evangelization proper to it and by leading a community Life, the members strive to seek the perfection of charity through the observance of the Constitutions. Established in response to the clarion call of Pope Leo XIII, “Your own sons, India will bring to you the message of salvation”, the Society being indigenous in character and style cherishes the social, cultural and religious heritage of India and express it in it’s life-style and apostolate. The Society has its members working in remote parts of the country and in the early 80’s established four Regions – all under the Superior General.

However on this sixty-fifth year of its Reorganization, the Society makes a quantum leap in its growth, the erection of four Regions into Provinces. It is a recognition of the emerging maturity of the Society of Pilar in all aspects – numbers, apostolate, finances and most important, as a community of persons. The installation of these Provinces means a decentralization of administration for the smooth functioning of the apostolate in these Provinces.

July 2 has been a red-letter day for the missionary Society of Pilar as it celebrates its Re-organization Day. The Society which was founded on September 26, 1887 by Fr. Bento Martins was dying out. It was at this juncture that a group of six diocesan priests and two Brothers of Goa came together and revived it on the 2nd July, 1939.

Since then, the Society has grown in size and number. Today the Society has one bishop, 306 priest members, 17 lay brothers, 88 scholastics, 18 novices, 28 pre-novices and around 158 students studying in the seminaries. At present the Society is working in 25 dioceses in India and abroad.

Archbishop of Goa and Daman Felipe Neri Ferrao, was the main celebrant, while Fr. Walter Gomes, Vicar-General was the Superior General’s Representative for the erection of the Goa Province with Fr. Galdino Monteiro being installed as its Provincial Superior.

The erection of Mumbai Province took place at Holy Cross Church, Juhu-Tara, Mumbai at 7 pm. Auxiliary Bishop of Mumbai Percival Fernandez presided over the Eucharist, while Fr. Anthony D’Silva, General Councillor, was the Superior General’s Representative for the Mumbai Province. Fr. Hilario Fernandes was installed as its Provincial Superior.

The erection of the Delhi Province took place at Our Lady of Health Church, Okla, New Delhi at 7 pm. Archbishop of Agra Oswald Gracias was the main celebrant, while Fr. Norman Almeida, General Councillor, was the Superior General’s Representative for the Delhi Province: Fr. Menino Gomes was installed as its Provincial Superior.

The Erection of the Kolkata Province took place at Nirmala Mata Mata Girja, Howrah at 7 pm. Archbishop Lucas Sirkar, SDB, of Kolkata was the main celebrant, while Fr. Peter D’Mello, General Councillor was the Superior General’s Representative for the Kolkata Province. Fr. Franklin Rodrigues was installed as its Provincial Superior.

The whole of Pilar Complex – Fathers, Brothers, Scholastics, Seminarians and other faithful – joined at a concelebrant High Mass, in the Mother House of the Society of Pilar Church, at 9 am, presided over by Fr. Tony Lopes, Superior General of the Society. Fr. Joseph Baptista, the General Treasurer, preached the word of God, followed by a day – long exposition of the Blessed Sacrament.

1. DELHI PROVINCE

The northern region of India where the Pilar Fathers have been working since the 1950’s was formally elevated and christened as Delhi Province on 2nd July, 2004, with the solemn Eucharist at the Okhla Church, Delhi. The backdrop of the alter depicted the logo and motto of the Province: Pilgrims of Faith, Witnesses of Hope, which highlights the multi religious context of North India where the Fathers engage in promoting inter – religious cordial relations; being witnesses of Hope reflects the emphasis in serving the poor and the marginalized. A felicitation programme followed the liturgy for the first Provincial, Fr. Menino Gomes, a veteran missioner who has worked in this region since his ordination, for the last twenty-three years. On this occasion the Journal of the Province, Roshni, was released. Its articles recount the pastoral history and present activities of the different mission units where the Pilar Fathers are working. A sumptuous dinner was hosted after the programme. Archbishop Oswald Gracias, who had earlier presided over the liturgy, toasted the new provincial.

The event also saw the maiden entry of the Pilar Sisters in the Province. The next day (3rd July), their community of three Sisters, Sabina Sardinha, Sybil Almeida and Prafula Tete, was formally installed at our unit in Mansa, in the presence of their President, Sister Nina Lopes, Fr. Menino the Provincial, and others. It is interesting to note that their Superior, Sr. Sabina had worked earlier in Sirsa as a teacher for eight years before joining the Society. The sisters are helping at the primary school and in the social work programme of the unit.

The Delhi Province is housed at a one-storey mansion named Pilar Niwas, at Jungpura Extension, Delhi. The Province has three constituent ‘Local Houses’ which had been erected in April 2004. The table below illustrates in brief the details about the Houses:

 Besides these units, other communities, and our confreres working elsewhere come directly under the Provincialate. They are the communities in Dholpur in Rajasthan, and Jammu, and members working in the diocese of Jalandhar. They work out to a total of seven members besides the three members appointed at the Provincialate in Delhi. Hence we have thirty-six members who are working in the Province of Delhi. The members are gradually becoming conscious of their new identity and belonging to a Local House, and its implications. This consciousness was reinforced at the Local Assemblies that were already held recently, by the respective Houses with enthusiasm and success.

2. KOLKATA PROVINCE

HISTORY OF THE KOLKATA PROVINCE (PILAR FATHERS)

There goes an old saying, “The Mills of God, grind slowly, but they grind mighty fine”. This has been exactly the care with the growth of the region to a Province. The growth of our region to Province has not been dramatic or spectacular, but a slow process but a sure one. The seeds were laid in the year 1965, nurtured, watered, pruned and finally now it has grown into a tree, with branches spreading through several states and union territories.

The breaking point to march towards the east came after the liberation of Portuguese Goa. Liberation opened the doors of the Society to look at the eastern parts of India, and hence in the year 1965, two young dynamic priests, Rev. Fr. Tiburcio Ferrao, sfx, and Rev. Fr. Marian Dias, sfx, just after their ordination were sent to Ranchi to learn Hindi and sadri, so that they could take over the missions of Andamans and Nicobar Islands and hence on 15th December 1965, they sailed into what was known as “Kala Pani” for the outside world, one taking up charge of the Northern Islands (from Diglipur to Port Blair) and the other of the southern Islands (Little Andaman to Indira Point).

1977: Saw another red-letter day for us, when Rev. Fr. Taumaturgo Paes, sfx. Popurlarly known as “Gamcha Father” took over the mission of Agharma, which was part of the mighty Archdiocese of Ranchi. Today Agharma is part of the Diocese of Gumla.

1986: Pioneering missionary work was always our charism, but God wanted the society to look into new ways of evangelization, a qualified ministry, and hence the Superior General of the society of Pilar, sent Rev. Fr. Franklin Rodrigues, sfx, (presently the first provincial of the Kolkata Province) to Bhopal, a man with 17 years of missionary experience among the tribal of Nagar haveli to give an insight into missionary work. He started the mission at “Shanti Nagar” by taking care of lepers, releasing the bonded labourers with the help of civil authorities, rehabilitating rag pickers and pastoral care of nomads.

1986: Saw the construction of a Transit house by Rev. Fr. Pio Lobo, sfx, near Stella Maris Church, in the Archdiocese of Kolkata. It was a great dream of Archbishop emiretus Henry D’Souza to bring the Society of Pilar in the Archdiocese of Calcutta. The transit home was a gift to our Adivasis people sailing from Andaman to Chotanagpur, who on reaching Kolkata had to spend the nights on the streets, who were abused and robbed by goons, and uncared if they fell sick.

1988: Stella Maris Church, (Kidderpore-Garden Reach) taken over by Fr. Nolasco Dias, sfx. Finally the Pilar Fathers entered the Archdiocese of Calcutta as envisaged by the Archbishop Henry and began growing.

1994: The Society entered the Northeast. It took up the missions of Thenyzumi in the Diocese of Kohima, Nagaland – pioneers Fr. Jerry Fernandes, Fr. Roque Noronha, Fr. Walter Miranda, and Fr. Alex Luis.

1996: The Archdiocese of Calcutta was kind enough to entrust to the Society the Diocesan land for the Regional home at Andul Road, Howrah and the Pastoral care to the parishioners of Nirmala Mata Maria Girja. Fr. Peter Fernandes-Ex-Regional and Fr. Vincent Fernandes were the pioneers respectively.

1997: Nampong in Arunachal Pradesh under the Diocese of Dibrugarh – Fr. Avon Vaz.

1999: Konoma parish in Nagaland under the Diocese of Kohima – Fr. John Crasto.

2000: Guwahati two mission stations (i) Pamahi west and (ii) Gorchuk. Fr. Jerry Fernandes and Fr. Roque Noronha pioneered.

2000: Infant Jesus Church, Gangarampur and Buy’s Town under Diocese of Baruipur – Fr. Agnelo D’Souza and Fr. Mathais D’Mello.

2001: Wallang in Shillong – Fr. Jerry Fernandes.

2002: Nawatanr and Doranda: Under the Archdiocese of Ranchi – Fr. Christopher Lakra and Bro. Noas Kispota at Nawatanr and Fr. T. Paes at Doranda.

2003: Siliguri under the Diocese of Bagdogra – Fr. Jacinto Almeida.

2003: Banderdeva in West Arunanchal under Diocese of Tezpur – Fr. Anthony Silva.

2003: Jabhua in Madhya Pradesh under Jabhua Diocese – Fr. Urbano Rodrigues.

Kolkotta (Calcutta) Province Erected
Thirty nine years later, after the foundation was laid for the first mission station in Andamans and Nicobar Islands, the Kolkata Province of the Society of the Missionaries of St. Francis Xavier came into being on 2nd July 2004. it was a moment of grace and blessing for all the members of the Kolkata Province (Society of Pilar), Andul Road Howrah. At an Eucharistic celebration, at 5:30 p.m. Presided by his grace, Most Rev. Msgr. Lucas Sirkar sdb, at Nirmala Mata Maria Girja, Andul Road, Howrah adjacent to the Provincial House of the Pilar Fathers, working in the Eastern Mission of the Society of Pilar, was erected into a Province. A fair representation of Priests (45 concelebrants) and religious numbering about 120 were present to express their joy and solidarity with the Pilar Fathers. Members of the parish were handsomely represented.

The Eucharist began with an entrance dance by the little girls of Ekprant Nagar. Fr. Francis Colaco, sfx, was the M.C. and Fr. Joseph Fernandes, sfx, was the liturgy coordinator. Rev. Fr. Avon Vaz, sfx, read the history of the Kolkata Province. Representing Fr. Tony Lopes, sfx, the Superior General of the Society of Pilar, Fr. Peter D’ Mello the General Councilor, after the penitential rite, read the Decree of the erection of the Province and the Papal Blessing. The Archbishop Lucas Sirkar sdb then unveiled the Map of the Kolkata Province. The whole Church applauded at the birth of a new Province in Kolkata. After the Gospel passage, Fr. Peter D’Mello read the appointments of the Provincial twam. Fr. Franklin Rodrigues took oath of office along with his three Provincial Councilors, Fr. Taumaturgo Paes, sfx, Fr. Avon Vaz, sfx and Fr. Vasant Ekka, sfx. The Kolkata Province of the Society of Pilar – extends to the following ecclesiastical Provinces viz Bhopal, Calcutta, Cuttak-Bhubaneshwar, Guwahati, Imphal-Kohima, Patna, Ranchi and Shillong.

During the post communion, Fr, Peter D’Mello read the message of the Superior General and Fr. Vasant Ekka expressed the vote of thanks. Fr. Elvis Fernandes with his guitar accompanied the local Choir who sang in various languages to give the flavor of each of the places the Pilar Fathers are working.

Later at the reception, the little girls of Ekprantnagar, garlanded the honoured guests and the Provincial team. Fr. Elvis Fernandes compered the felicitation programme. The Archbishop, Msgr. Lucas Sirkar in his address requested the Pilar Fathers to work zealously for evangelization and particularly for vocations in Bengal. He also prayed to the Pilar Fathers to give the people of Bengal the devotion to the Holy Eucharist. Fr. Peter speaking on the occasion stressed that the erection of the Province meant a greater commitment of Pilar missionaries to the mission of evangelization – a call to cast their nets deeper and wider. His Grace, Archbishop Emeritus, Henry D’Souza toasted the Society of Pilar and its Kolkata Province. Rev. Fr. Franklin Rodrigues, sfx the Provincial Superior enumerated the mission and the work of the newly erected Kolkata Province. The Provincial team cut a cake to celebrate the occasion. After the felicitation the priests and religious joined in an Agape.

3. THE MUMBAI PROVINCE

On July 2nd 2004, our Society finally took the historic step towards creation of provinces. The present General Council, following up on the mandate given by XVI General Chapter, step-by step, carried forward the task and tactfully completed all-important matter of assigning members to the proposed provinces. Members in the different regions, having discussed the issue threadbare in their respective Regional Assemblies, have opted to be raised to the status of Provinces. With the decrees of election of Provinces, the General Council ushers into Society a new era of governance that is expected to be at the SERVICE OF OUR MISSIONARY APOSTOLATE.

Each Region of the Society has a unique identity. They had their steady growth over the last fifty years; it was quite natural that they should be left to grow into independent Provinces. The root of the Society goes back to the times of the Reorganization of the Society in 1939, Fr. Joseph Albuquerque, Fr. Teodolino Cabral, Bro. Peter Mascarenhas being the first missionaries of Society of Pilar that formed the nucleus for apostolate among tribals in Nagar Haveli. It was called ‘Nagar Haveli Mission’. Since then the ‘child’ has steadily grown up, spreading over Daman, Maharashtra, Gujarat and Diu. Having come of age we may now say that she is being ‘given in marriage’.

THE CHOICE IS OURS!
First of all, each member of the Province needs to STAND BY the choice for opting to be raised in the province. Having chosen to be a Province we need to enjoy the “good times” as well face the “bad times” because the CHOICE IS OURS. Our decision to go for a province presupposes our readiness to face consequent responsibilities and challenges. It is important to be aware at every moment that we never cease to be members of the Society while being assigned as members of the Province. We will need to strive to realize our Missionary Vocation by being in the particular COMMUNITY (province) that is very much part and parcel of the larger COMMUNITY (society). Therefore the patrimony of our Society and its specific purpose of pioneering missionary apostolate need to be always the focal point in the area of our work.

OUR MEMBERS ARE OUR ASSETS
Nearly 60% of the members in Mumbai Province are below 40 years of age. They are talented, enthusiastic, dynamic, constructive and creative. There is lot of hope as far as human resources are concerned. Perhaps the need is to tap individual talents and train them in specialized fields so as to equip the members for the missionary apostolate. With the advent of the new system of governance it should be relatively convenient for the provincial administration to plan its personnel, direct the members to choose their field of interest keeping in mind the needs of the Province.

OUR COMMUNITIES ARE OUR STRENGTH
The new way of life in our Society that has been introduced now presupposes the basic nature of our Society as SAL. All the ‘Houses’ that will be erected in our Province are viz. Khanwel, Vapi and Ambernath are not just single communities of members but aggregate of constituent Local Communities/branch residences, which are away from the ‘Erected House’. It must be noted that the Local Delegate Superiors heading those communities will be at the same time be Parish Priests/Chaplains/Presidents of Fabricas/Incharges/Sole Trustees etc. they will have their own independence and autonomous powers that go along with their posts. Besides, most of the communities will be living in buildings/residences that do not belong to the Society. Conflicting situations are likely and there can be tendencies to say “I do this or that as Parish Preist.” However the new order also gives us opportunity to witness our communion in communities. As such it is not the responsibility of the Provincial, Local Superiors or Local Delegate Superiors alone but of each member of the Province to build community with collaborative leadership. In this regard an important intervention in the last Regional Assembly, which was generally accepted by all, was that even matters of apostolate (referring to the diocese) should be fully discussed in the House meeting so that all members are taken into confidence.

Good health of the community will mean good health of the Province. It will be the responsibility of the Local Superior to promote a good community life by gelling the members together through sound animation and collaborative leadership. Houses are erected precisely for such an objective so that there is accessibility between the Local Superior and all the members, to have common assemblies, common get-togethers to promote better interaction (D.82.5). While the Houses at Vapi, Khanwel and Ambernath are ideally situated for the above purpose; Diu and Tumsar are quite a distant away from their Local Superiors in Vapi and Ambernath respectively. It is understandable in the initial period of creation of the province but is should not be continued for too long. The role of the Provincial is to see to the overall health of the communities but at the same time Local Superiors will need his support as Major Superior, whenever disciplinary action has to be taken. It could happen that the Provincial abdicates responsibility by passing the buck to the local superior when such cases arise, not merely the other way round!

ALL FOR THE SAKE OF THE MISSION
The change brought about in the governance of our Society is at the service of our Missionary Apostolate. Each province as a community is expected to concretize the directives given by the XVI General Chapter. The role of the Provincial administration is to chalk out over all plans in line with our specific purpose and in collaboration with the Local Church Authorities. The Province of West India/Mumbai provides ample scope for realization of our missionary goals. We are already involved wonderfully in Pastoral, Social, Educational and youth apostolate in underdeveloped tribal areas as well as city/ton areas. We are amidst both types of missionary situation: mission ad gentes, as well as in relatively established churches which however still in a minority situation. It is to be noted that the majority of our faithful belongs to the youth. This section of the community will have to be given prime care if the mission has to be succeeded and enough trained personnel must be allotted to this sector.

Perhaps the aspect that we need to look into is our movement towards people of other faiths, through inter religious dialogues. Concrete programme in this direction is the need of the hour in the province. In tribal areas our social work is excellent but we need to bring also the dimension of social action in our social apostolate. Therefore, while the provincial together with Local Superiors will plan the apostolate, it is the Local Superiors real executives who will have a big role to play in realizing the plans at the grass root level. An area that we should be more trained in is people’s involvement and working together with people.

TO FACILITATE BETTER CO-ORDINATION
With the erection of Provinces, the Society brings into effect a major shift in the system of governance. The Provincial is Major Superior with ordinary powers of a Major Superior. More Houses will be erected and there will be Local Superiors functioning between Provincial and Local Delegate Superiors. The Provincial of ‘Mumbai’ will be in Mumbai. For the first time a large number of members working in the area of Nagar Haveli, Vapi, Daman will find the Superior a distance away from them. We are used to be close to the regional Superior, often to seek his recourse/intervention in problems that are of local nature. With the Provincial being away the Local Superiors will need to show good caliber and leadership qualities, because for all practical purposes they are going to be like “Regional Superiors” in their area (considering the present strength of each Local House in the province) holding responsibilities over Local communities.

Another area that has to be handled well is the functioning of five civil Societies that are in the province. These Societies are vital for the apostolate. While the provincial should function as the chairman of these societies a few relevant amendments may be required to be brought about in the bylaws of some these societies so as to enable the Local Superiors to play a vital role in the functioning. For example the Local Superior of the House of Khanwel can play a vital role in Gyanmata Education society Khanwel considering that members of the constituent Local communities of the House of Khanwel will be appointed Headmasters and Managers of many schools that come under G.E.S. In the initial stages there may be difficulties in adjusting to the new situation and achieving smooth coordination in the three-tier system but as time passes we have hope that things will settle.

THAT WE MAY STAND ON OUR OWN FEET
Apostolate demands sufficient financial means and support. The province will have to look into a broader base for financial resources, rather than relying on a few tired and tested approaches. A creative use of the limited assets and land will have to be looked into as well as innovative ways to raise funds from well wishers. The financial support will obviously depend on the attractiveness of the projects or works that are taken up by the Province.

CONCLUSION
The Mumbai Province of our Society has the oldest mission – Nagar Haveli. Our first pioneering work was done here. Until the seventies, it was the, ascot of our missionary work, with virtually every member of the then society having in it. It would indeed have been apt to name our Province the Nagar Haveli province rather than the Mumbai province in view of this legacy. To members steeped in this tradition the new name will take time to seep in. However, names apart, the Mumbai province will draw inspiration from this pioneering tradition to move forward with giant steps into the new millennium.

“2ND JULY- BIRTH OF THE MUMBAI PROVINCE”.

Sixty-five years after the re-organization of the indigenous Society of Pilar, founded in 1887 by Rev. Fr. Bento Martins, the Society of Pilar has taken a leap into the three-tier system of Governance: The Superior General, The Provincial Superior and the Local Superior, thus implementing the Constitution and Directory of the Society of the Missionaries of St. Francis Xavier. It was a great day for the Western Region as it underwent a process of metamorphosis into “Mumbai Province” through the Decree of Erection promulgated by the Superior General represented by Rev. Fr. Anthony D’Silva at the Concelebrated Eucharist presided over by his Lordship Rt. Rev. Msgr. Percival Fernandez at Holy Cross Church, Juhu Koliwada. The map of the Province was unveiled and the papal blessings on the new Province were read. Then followed the enthronement of the Word of God. To symbolize that we are called to spread the light of Jesus, different representatives of the Province and the people lighted the lamp

The assembly, mainly consisting of Priests, heads of religious Congregation benefactors and well wishers, witnessed the erection of the Province and the induction of the First Provincial Superior and his Council at a vibrant and inculturated liturgy of Prayer, Aarti and dance performed by our children from Nagar Haveli, Vadtal and Ambernath. Before the final blessing, the new Provincial, the Bishop and the representative of Superior General Rev. Fr. Anthony D’Silva were felicitated with a bouquet of flowers. Fr. Anthony D’Silva read the message sent by the Superior General and then the new Provincial gave his message. Later the whole assembly gathered together for a short Cultural Programme by the mission Cchildren twined with the delicious Agape at the Parish Hall. Long live the Mumbai Province!!!.

ERECTION OF FOUR LOCAL HOUSES – A BRIEF REPORT

It was a great moment, a happy one for the Mumbai Province, formerly known as the Western Region as it underwent a process of transformation, when, with due permission from the Bishops of Goa and Daman, Ahmedabad and Mumbai, the four Local Houses were erected.

The Local house of Khanwel was erected on 22nd June 2004 at our Lord Redeemer Church, Khanwel with Rev. Fr. Nolasco Dias as the Local Superior, Fr. Andrew D’Costa, the First Councillor, Fr. Edmund Mascarenhas, the Second Councillor, and Fr. Savio Coutinho, the Local Treasurer. (Its Constituent Local Communities are Sindoni – Chisda, Dudhni, Karasganv – Velluganv, Dapadda and Shelti).

The Local house of Vapi was erected on 23rd June 2004 at Pour Lady of Vailankanni Church, Vapi, with Rev. Fr. Angelino Vaz, as the Local Superior, Fr. Valerian D’Souza, the First Councillor, Rev. Fr. Brian Rodrigues as the Second Councillor and Fr. Domingos Gonsalves, the Local Treasurer. (Its Constituent Local Communities are Silvassa, Small Daman, Big Daman, and Daman Praca).

The Local house of Ambernath was erected on 24th June 2004 at Fatima Church Ambernath, with Rev. Fr. Maxy D’Costa, as the Local Superior, Fr. Adrian D’Souza, the First Councillor, Fr. Naveen Lewis, the Second Councillor, and Fr. Joseph Fernandes the Local Treasurer. (Its Constituent Local Communities are Juhu, Tumsar and members residing at Badlapur).

The Local house of Vadtal was erected on 30th June 2004 at Sacred Heart Church, Vadtal, with Rev. Fr. Lyndon Rodrigues, as the Local Superior, Fr. Romualdo Gonsalves, the First Councillor, Fr. Ramesh Mahale, the Second Councillor and Fr. Thomas Rodrigues, the Local Treasurer. (Its Constituent Local Communities are Khempur, and Diu and our member at Himmatnagar).

The erection of each Local House began with the Eucharistic Celebration, presided over by the Provincial Superior, Rev. Fr. Hilario Fernandes together with the members of the oath of office followed by “agape” arranged by the Local House.

4. THE GOA PROVINCE

In 1882 Fr. Bento Martins proposed to the Archbishop his own plan to start a missionary Society and was appointed the Chaplain of Usgao in Ponda Taluka in 1883 and of Agonda in Canancona Taluka in 1884 in addition to Valpoi. He began to gather companions and with their help started intense missionary work in the Canancona Taluka upto Cabo de Rama and Velim and founded the Society in 1887. He constructed new Churches in Valpoi andAgonda, which were soon raised to parishes. In 1894, the Archbishop Patriarch created the Mission Deanery at Shiroda with territory extending to Ponchwadi, Molem and Colem and entrusted it to the Society.

The members of the Society, also known as Pilar Fathers, gave a pioneering service in the new Conquests of Goa, in North Karnataka and in the Ghats for half a century. The Society had in all 21 members, of whom 1 were perpetually professes members was Fr. Agnelo de Souza, a saintly member of the Society, a renowned preacher of the Word of God, a missionary in Kumpta (Karnataka), Sanvordem and Shiroda and a Spiritual Director of Rachol Seminary. He died in 1927 and his process of beatification is advancing in Rome. Another member, Fr. B. Remedios do Rosario Gomes, who joined the Society in 1916, was appointed Dean of Honavar in Karnataka in 1925, and worked there till 1935. he constructed Chapels at Bolsur, Shiroli, Murdeshwar, Kasarkod, Molkod, Poquimoto and Undkonnem, most of which are today parishes of the Karwar diocese.

The above mentioned, Fr. B.R.R. Gomes, was the lone survivor when the Society of Pilar came to the verge of extinction in 1939. However on 2nd July reorganized and revitalized by the coming together of five young priests and two laymen together with the lone survivor. These Reorganizers or Second Founders were Fr. B.R.R. Gomes, Fr. C. Rodrigues, Fr. F. Sequeira, Fr. M.J. Barreto, Fr. J. Albuquerque, Fr. T. Cabral, Bro. P. Mascarenhas and Bro. P. Lacerda.

The members of the reorganized Society aimed at doing pioneering work for the socio-educational uplift of the poor and down trodden, not only in the Archdiocese of Goa, but also to extend their services to all the corners of India and far beyond. As the number of members increased, the Society extended its service to Nagar Haveli and Daman from 1940, opened its own Mission Seminary in 1942, then accepted new mission areas of Sanguem (Goa) and of Bombay from 1951, extended further to Punjab Haryana from 1961 and to Andaman and Nicobar Islands from 1965. These slowly developed into the so-called Regions of the Society. The Society extended its services to the other States, thereafter. So far the Society is composed only of Indian Union and in the neighbouring country of Nepal. Besides it has opened one house each in Rome, London, Germany and U.S. A. for pastoral service. The members of the Society have also developed and served in various other mission stations for considerable periods, but which eventually they gave up. Some of these mission stations in South India are: Castle Rock and Joida in Belgaum diocese, Monki in Karwar diocese and Kota in Mangalore diocese, Bastar in Chhatisgarh and others.

SANGUEM REGION

When the Sanguem Taluka in Goa was taken up for the mission work by the Society, it had a military Chapel, blessed in 1853, which had been at first affiliated to Zambaulim Church, in the Deanery of Kepem. In 1858 the Chapel was raised to a Church and a small edifice for the Church building was constructed at the expenses of the Government. However, Sanguem baptisms were recorded in the books of Tilamola Church upto 1920. By Provision NO. 16/51 dated 20th April 1951, issued by the then Archbishop of Goa and Daman, Patriarch D. Jose da Costa Nunes, Sanguem was detached from the Deanery of Kepem, and constituted into a separate mission, known as the central mission of Sanguem entrusted to the Society of Pilar, under the direction of a Mission Superior, with powers of a Dean. It comprised the territory of the entire Sanguem Taluka and some parts of Kepem Taluka, with headquarters at Sanguem. This territory covered the existing mission parishes of Sanvordem and Rivona and the outposts of Colem and Dabal.

Initially Fr. Thomas Mascarenhas was appointed the Superior of the Mission, Fr. Aureliano Rodrigues was sent as Chaplain of Uguem and Fr. Roque Fernandes as Chaplain of Kurdi. The Diocesan priests continued to work in the remaining parishes and Chaplaincies for some time. In 1952, the Parish of Rivona was taken over by the Society, in 1953 the Parish of Sanvordem, in 1966 Dabal, and in 1967 Colem. This cluster of parishes formed the Sanguem Region of the Society.

Soon after Pilar Fathers entrusted Sanguem, there was an upsurge of mining industry in the Region. Industrialists from different parts of the country rushed to Sanguem and opened mines in various places in the jungles. Due to this, thousands of labourers flocked to these areas. Sanguem became a big mining belt from Salgini and Neturlim to Costi, Dodomarg, Rivona, Dabal etc. the Patriarch appointed Fr. Aureliano Rodrigues as the first Chaplain of Mines in 1956, with personal jurisdiction over the people working in the mines. These people had many problems due to brutalisation of man by machines. The Chaplains rendered their services in fighting against this injustice and in attending to their spiritual, moral and religious needs.

When the Mission of Sanguem was entrusted to the Society of Pilar, Sanguem did not have suitable buildings for the Churches. This picture became completely different after the Pilar Fathers took over. New edifices with residences for Churches and Chapels were soon constructed or the existing ones extended to absorb the growing numbers of the faithful. Cemeteries were also added to added. Now we have good Church and Chapel buildings in Sanguem, Rivona, Dabal, Colem, Uguem, Vaddem, Molkornem, Neturlim, Valkinni, Costi, Kalay, Xelvona, Periudok, Cansaulim, Cajumol, Molem, Shigao, Sancordem and Kolma, where Sunday mass is celebrated and other activities conducted for the service of the people.

Sanguem, the largest Taluka of Goa, had no schools when Pilar fathers took over in 1951, except in Curchorem situated on its border with Kepem. The members of the Society did pioneering work in providing a network of High Schools in the area: Miracles High School (Sanguem), O.L. of Fatima High School (Rivona), O. L. of Immaculate Conception High School (Dabal), Sacred Heart of Jesus High School (Kurdi), O. L. of Piety High School, Colem, and Guardian Angel High School, which by order of the Patriarch had been taken over by the Society after paying its huge debts in 1953, and expanded until by 1975, it became a Higher Secondary School (Curchorem). Besides a number of Konkani Primary Schools were opened. Care was also taken of technical education by providing a Catering College at the Guardian Angel Complex. Due to the Selauli Dam Project, the mission had to sacrifice the Church and School in Kurdi, as the place was submerged and the people were rehabilitated in Vaddem, Valkinni and other places.

By 1988, the Sanguem Mission had grown and so the archbishop-Patriarch of Goa Most Rev. Raul Gonsalves felt that Sanguem Taluka could be upgraded into a Deanery on par with the other deaneries of the Archdiocese of Goa. Thus Sanguem was erected into a Deanery in November 1991, marking the end of the erstwhile central mission of Sanguem.

EXTENSION OF THE REGION
In 1996, the Region decided to extend its pastoral activity outside the Sanguem Taluka. It took over the Parish of Anjuna, the birthplace of Ven. Agnelo, with its filial Chapel at Mazalvaddo (Bardez), and the parish of Agonda (Canacona), the Society’s birthplace. In the process the Region handed over to Archdiocese the parishes of Sanvordem and Dabal. In 1998, the Region extended its borders outside Goa by taking up the responsibility of the Kadawal parish in the Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra, in the diocese of Pune. (The Pilar Society had taken over that parish in 1989, but the General Administration looked it after until 1998). In 2001 the Region opened another mission parish at Salethur in the Mangalore diocese, South Karnataka, situated on the border of Kerala. In 2002, it opened a new mission station at Chandgad in Belgaum diocese and took over from the Fransalians the parish of Canaguinim and its affiliate Church of Cabo de Rama in the Archdiocese of Goa. On 1st of June 2004, it has taken over the parish of Penha-de-Franca in Goa and on 5th June, the parish of Mirjan in Karwar diocese. The Bishop of Karwar has also requested the Society to take over the parish of Castle Rock. All these communities are clustered under six houses, constituted under Local Superiors with their Councils, according to the Constitutions of the Society.

GOA PROVINCE
In 1997 the General Chapter of the Society of Pilar decided to extend its existing Regions and the General Chapter of 2002 gave the present administration of the Society, the green signal to constitute the different houses of the Society existing in India into four Provinces: North, South, East and West, bringing together all communities, houses and members in each extended Region under the respective Provincial. This Province comprises all the houses and communities in the South of India. The Provincial House administering these will be situated in Margao, Goa. The sphere of the mission is to expand right through Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala and South Maharashtra.

THE PIONEERS OF THE GOA PROVINCE

A virtuous priest Rev. Fr. Jose Mariano Clemente Bento Martins at Agonda, Canacona Taluka, founded the missionary Society of St. Francis Xavier on 26th September 1887. From his Diaconate onwards he preferred to work in the remotest places of Goa, like Uguem, Tilamola, Valpoi, Agonda, etc. during his lifetime the Missionary Society had mission parishes inside and outside Goa.

On 2nd July 1939 the Society of Missionaries of St. Francis Xavier was Reorganized and the field of Apostolate was extended beyond the Archdiocese of Goa, to the whole of India. A mission seminary was started by the Society and consequently more missionary priests were trained.

On 20th April 1951 the Patriarch of Goa D. Jose da Costa Nunes constituted the Missao Central de Sanguem and entrusted it to the Society of Pilar; it comprised the Taluka of Sanguem. This mission was put under Superior with the powers of a Dean. Fr. Thomas Mascarenhas was the first Superior (Mission Superior) with Fr. Aureliano Rodrigues and Fr. Roque Fernandes as his Assistants. They formed the first Pilar Fathers Community in this mission of Sanguem. All three of them were visionaries. Fr. Thomas Mascarenhas had a vast pastoral experience in Pune, Karwar, Kholapur, Vengurla and other places. The Patriarch D. Jose da Costa Nunes and the Superior of the Fr. Thomas Mascarenhas of Pilar were wise to appoint a deeply spiritual man to this job. He was a man who loved to work with people. He would try to understand their problems and would help them generously. At that time the entire area of Sanguem Taluka was under developed and lacked infrastructural facilities like communications, health care, education etc. People were victims of malaria and other diseases. Fr. Thomas, Fr. Aureliano and Fr. Roque were dedicated to their mission. As good shepherds they went out in search of their sheep in every corner of Curdi, Netorlim, Uguem, Costi and other areas. Fr. Aureliano was made in-charge of Uguem Chapel with his residence at Sanguem Church and Fr. Roque Fernandes was sent to Curdi as Chaplain. He was also looking after Netorlim. Both these places were very challenging. Fr. Roque faced all the difficulties very bravely. He was a pastor, guide and friend to everyone. He was keen in helping the poor and would fight for their rights. He was a man of the masses. His talent of music (harmonium and tabla) attracted many to him. Everyone to their festivals as well as any family gathering invited him. Each family considered him a member of their family. Fr. Roque encouraged education among the people and due to his efforts many came up in life and they are grateful to him and the Pilar Fathers for their assistance.

Fr. Aureliano Rodrigues after serving well the people of Uguem, was transferred to Curdi. In very little time he felt the need of the people and started a primary school with two sections: a day school for children and a night school for adults. He helped people in strating with poultry farms, goat rearing, candle making, and small-scale industry. Fr. Aureliano wanted always to see people happy. He started an association of “Mutual Help” to help its members in need. This was much appreciated by the people. Besides, one of his projects was to start a hostel where the inmates, instead of paying fees would get some emoluments from the school with free boarding and lodging. They only had to participate in the different schemes and trades, especially agriculture, sponsored by the school. During his long stay in Curdi he looked after the development of the people, extended the Chapel, built a cemetery, constructed a part of school building etc. today Curdi is submerged by the water of Selaulim dam. The elderly people living in rehabilitation area like Vaddem, Valkini and other places still remember the fatherly love showered on them by the missionary Fr. Aureliano Rodrigues.

The first Pilar Fathers Missionary team had a vast vision “The harvest is plenty but the labourers are few” That was the ripe time to spread their pastoral as well as educational activities in this remote Taluka of Sanguem. More priests and Brothers were invited. Thus, the area of apostolate was extended to Rivona, Sanvordem, Molcornem, Dabal, Colem, Vaddem etc. everywhere Churches and Chapels were constructed. Education was made an essential activity. The fruit of their vision is today called the Goa Province with missions inside Goa (Agonda, Anjuna, Canaguinim, Britona) and outside Goa (Diocese of Pune, Belgaum, Mangalore and Karwar) with its members working in different parishes, chaplaincies, primary schools, high schools, colleges, polytechnics, orphanages etc.

Twenty-five years ago the first superior of this mission Fr. Thomas Mascarenhas while living among us advised us his confreres, “Don’t get discouraged; don’t neglect your spiritual duties. The people of God require more Spiritual guides and leaders to show them the eternal path. Put always your trust in our heavenly Mother, who will protect you, guide you and keep you safe on the road of salvation.”

Today the mission entrusted to the care of Fr. Thomas Mascarenhas has grown up into a Province. Fr. Mascarenhas is not among us but surely he intercedes for us before the throne of God. We have every hope that this Province will prosper and yield plenty of spiritual fruits. 

OUR COMMUNITIES

The Catholics of Salethur wanted to feel one community. Only a chapel or a Church could bring in them this sense of belonging. Though they did not have financial means they worked hard and diligently. In the year 1977 a Chapel was built. Slowly religious celebrations were held in this place and in the year 2001 the people approached the Bishop of Mangalore to give them a priest to look after the flock. The Bishop, forwarded the request to our Society. The Superior General took it as a special gift of God to serve the poor people and appointed Fr. Victor D’Souza and Fr. Eulalio Fernandes as pioneers in this far away place situated on the outskirt of Mangalore (Karnataka) and on the border of Kerala. The illiteracy here is high, the main occupation of the people is farming, and the nature is sometimes hard on the people. They have to work with limited water resources. At present Fr. Noel Menezes and Jesu Dasan are placing all their efforts to empower the people and develop the community.

KARWAR is the latest addition to our Missionary endeavour. On 5th June, during the concelebrated Mass in which 12 priests from our South India Region and deanery of Kumta participated, the parish was officially entrusted to the Society Pilar Fathers and Fr. Patrick Luis, sfx as the Parish Priest of Mirjan was installed by Rev. Msgr. Simon Telles, the Vicar General of Karwar diocese,. Fr. Conceicao Pinto, sfx was welcomed as Assistant Parish Priest. The handing over and the installation was very touching and at the same time inspiring.

Mirjan has a great history. It is the place where the old fort of Tippu Sultan lies, presently in ruins. This is where our Venerable Fr. Agnelo served the people of God. the statue of St. Francis Xavier which is kept in the Church at Chandavar, is supposed to have been picked up from the backwaters. The new Church of Mirjan was inaugurated on 19th March 1992. Till then the chapel at Mirjan was administered by the priests from Kumta Parish. The mission unit of Mirjan has been a challenging one, be it in the line of evangelization or development. The Sisters of Ursulines of Mary Immaculate (U.M.I.) are serving this parish in medico-pastoral apostolate. They opened a dispensary Daya Nilaya in 1982 and extended their services to Bargi in 1987.

AGONDA
Before 1859, the church existed as a chapel and was affiliated to the Parish at Canacona. It was raised to a parish in 1888. The Church was first built in 1951. The Pilar Fathers took over in June 1996. The parish runs a diocesan High School. Recently, the church was rebuilt and blessed in January 2002. Fr. Agustine D’Mello, sfx, is the Parish Priest and Manager of the High School. Fr. Francis Ferrao is his Assistant. The Parish has a well set Parish Pastoral Council and Small Christian Communities and a youth group.

CANAGUINIM
On the solemnity of Christ the king, November 23rd 2003 the Southern Region ventured in a new mission place: Canaguinim and Cabo de Rama. At the end of the concelebrated Mass the Archbishop-Patriarch Raul Gonsalves handed over the keys of the Tabernacle to Fr. Anthony Paul Vaz the appointed Parish Priest. He is ably assisted by Fr. Bosco Rodrigues. The original Chapel of Canaguinim was built in 1878 and was affiliated to the Assolna Church. Later on it was attached to Velim Church and from 1889 it was affiliated to the Church of Cabo-de-Rama. In 1947 it became a separate parish. The new Church building was completed in 1988.

RIVONA
Once a chapel, built in 1890 and dedicated to Our Lady of the Rosary, it was affiliated to the Tilamola Parish. On 1st April 1940, the chapel was raised to a Parish Church. The Pilar Fathers took over in 1952. Presently Fr. Tadeu D’Silva is the Parish Priest and the Local Superior. He is ably assisted by Fr. Nixon Gomes as the Assistant Parish Priest. The parish has recently established a Parish Pastoral Council and has a few Small Christian Communities. They have a Charismatic Renewal Prayer group. Besides, Pastoral work the community also has a Boys Hostel and the Fatima High School. The parish church was extended and blessed by Most Reverend Raul Gonsalves on 21/01/2001. The parish celebrated 25 years of service of the Pilar Fathers in Rivona. The parish looks after the chapel at Kolomb. Fr. Augustine Souza is Chaplain of Our Lady of Piety Chapel, Molcornem, and forms community with Bro. Inacio D’Souza. The Congregation of the Helpers of Mary assists in the parish and have a hostel for girls.

VADDEM, SANGUEM
The chapel, dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, was initially situated in Curdi, Sanguem and Fr. Roque Fernandes was its Chaplain when the Pilar Fathers took over in 1951. With the Selaulim Irrigation Project, the entire village was submerged and the villagers were rehabilated at Vaddem, Sanguem by the Government. So also the Chapel was shifted and the new edifice constructed and erected as an Oratory in April 1989. Fr. Auxemio Monteiro alongwith Fr. Esperdiao Gonsalves, constructed the parish residence with foreign funding and collection from the various churches in Goa. In 2002 this became a full-fledged parish and Fr. Auxemio Montiero the Local Delegate Superior was appointed as the first Parish Priest. The parish also caters to smaller chapels at Netorlim and Kurpem. At present Fr. Mathew Fernandes is the Parish Priest and Fr. Esperdiao Gonsalves is on the staff.

UGUEM
The Chapel was built by the Sociedade Patriotica dos Baldios de Novas Conquistas in their plot of land. The first Chaplain was Fr. Deodato Piedade da Costa in 1950-51, when the Pilar Fathers took over the parish of Sanguem, this chapel was looked after by late Fr. Aureliano Rodrigues, sfx as its Chaplain in 1951. Fr. Leopoldino Dias (1967-73) constructed the cemetery. In 1995, the chapel was rebuilt when Fr. Augustine D’Mello, sfx was the Chaplain. Recently Fr. Pio Furtado constructed a compound wall and prepared a campus with facilities for the children. There is a Primary School aided by the Government. Presently Fr. Joaquim Fernandes is the Chaplain and Local Delegate Superior and Fr. Marsal Soares is on the staff and Advisor. Besides the school, Saturdays prayer services, with focus on inner healing through the Sacrament of Reconciliation are being conducted.

The Community comprises of Fr. John C. D’Souza who is the Local Delegate Superior and Fr. Michael Rebello. The Community conducts two activities, namely school and orphanage.

1. Miracles High School: The school had its humble beginning in the Miracles Church corridors in 1952 and it grew gradually and the first batch of SSC students appeared for the Board Exams in 1965. The school has over 325 students on the rolls. Fr. John C. D’Souza is the Manager of the School and Fr. Michael Rebello is the Headmaster. The school has excelled in sports and extra curricular activities. Computer Education has been started with the help of SCOGO and the Govt. and all students and benefiting.

2. St. Francis Xavier Sadan: This orphanage for boys was established in 1984 at Kalay by Fr. Nolasco Dias, sfx with just four orphans. With the number growing to 24 in 1987, the orphanage was shifted to the old vacant Guardian Angel Hostel premises. Later, in June 1983, it was again shifted to the boy’s hostel, Rivona in order to maintain the declining enrolment of the Fatima High School. It was then that a donor agency, namely Association of Francois Xavier Bagnoud, Switzerland began to sponsor these boys and hence the number of orphans was raised to 50. Till date, this donor agency supports these orphans. In June 1995, the orphanage was once again shifted to its present location at Miracles hostel premises Sanguem. The unique feature of this orphanage is that it has begun to also cater to children of parents suffering from AIDS. Presently Fr. C. D’Souza is the Director of the Orphanage.

MIRACLES CHURCH, SANGUEM
Blessed as a Chapel in 1853 it was soon raised to the status of a Parish in 1858. The Pilar Fathers took over the Parish in June 1951 with late Fr. Thomas Mascarenhas, sfx as the Parish Priest and Mission Superior. The small church, dedicated to Our Lady of Miracles was then demolished and the new Church, as it stands presently, was constructed in the time of Fr. Joao Santan Sequeira, sfx and blessed on 12/5/1977. Recently, the same church was extended at the rear side by the Parish Priest Fr. Augusto Dias and the parishioners and blessed by the Archbishop Most Rev. Raul Gonsalves, in March 2002. The Pilar Community consists of Fr. Octaviano D’Cunha (Parish Priest) and Fr. Constancio Mendes, (Asst. PP). The Parish caters to the Chapels at Chinchant, Solliem, Kadeabag and Valkinni.

The Parish has a well established Parish Pastoral Council and has 16 Small Christian Communities which are functioning well. A Charismatic Prayer group has also been established. Friday Prayer services concentrate on healing through the Sacrament of Reconciliation. The parish has also focused on helping the poor of the Parish irrespective of caste or creed and weekly doles are being given from what the parishioners have been motivated to share.

SANVORDEM
In 1952 His Excellency, Patriarch Dom Jose Da Costa Nunes handed over to us this Parish and the School. There was a hostel attached to the School which was closed down in 1984. the parish was handed over to the diocese in 1997. Besides, the Guardian Angel High School and Primary/KG, we also have the Guardian Angel Higher Secondary School which started in 1975, and the Guardian Angel Institute of Hotel Management and Catering Technology in 1997. Fr. Frank Mendes is the Principal of Guardian Angel Higher Secondary School, and Fr. Andrew Silveira, Headmaster of Guardian Angel KG/Primary/High School.

Fr. Aurelio Rodrigues is the Local Superior and Manager of the Educational Complex and Fr. Henry D’Souza is the Manager of the Guardian Angel Institute of Hotel Management and Catering Technology.

KALAY FARM
Around 16 hectares of land was purchased from Mrs. Nataline Raposa in 1967. The farm has mainly cashew and coconut plantation and is supposed to be a source of support for the province. Presenlty, Fr. Joaquim Fernandes is the Manager of the farm. The unit has the Seva Kendra which used to carry on social activities through projects for the poor and other programmes for women. The orphanage at Sanguem began under the auspices of this Kendra. Plans are afoot to revive the activities of this Kendra. The community at Kalay caters to the spiritual needs of the people under the direction of the Parish Priest of Collem.

COLLEM
A Chapel was built at a place where there was a modest cross in 1882. The chapel which was under the jurisdiction of Shiroda and then Sanvordem parishes was rebuilt and blessed in 1916. It was raised to a full fledged Parish in 1955. The Pilar Fathers took over the parish in 1967 with Fr. Sebastiao Fernandes as Parish Priest. The Parish has begun a Parish Pastoral Council and has established Small Christian Communities. One of the Small Christian Communities has been selected as a model for the whole Archdiocese. The community carries on school Apostolate too. Piety High School was the brainchild of late Fr. Sebastian Fernandes and was started in 1967. The parish has outstation chapels/mission posts at Kasauli, Cajumol, Shigao, Mollem and Kalay. The sisters belonging to the Congregation of the Daughters of the Cross assist in the parish and have recently begun a Kindergarten. Presently, Fr. Pascoal Fernandes is the Parish Priest and Local Delegate Superior as well as the Manager of the Piety High School. Fr. Milagres Barrreto is the Assistant PP and the Headmaster. A new parochial residence is being constructed.

BRITONA
The Archbishop-Patriarch of Goa entrusted to our Society, Goa Province the 400 years old Parish Church of Penha de Franca on the banks of the river Mandovi. It is situated at a beautiful location facing the river. Fr. Kyriel D’Souza, Episcopal Vicar for Religious was installed as Parish Priest of this Church on June 1st, 2004. His assistant is Fr. Augusto Dias.

The Church was built in the village of Virlosa in 1626. But within 26 years the whole church building came down. It was rebuilt in 1655 and was declared a national monument in 1932.

ANJUNA
The church was founded in 1603 and dedicated to St. Michael, the Archangel. The Church was rebuilt in 1713 and enlarged in 1897. The Pilar Fathers took over the Parish in June 1996 and Fr. Lino Florindo as Parish Priest and Fr. Pio Furtado as Assistant. In 1997 Fr. Cyril Mascarenhas was appointed Chaplain of Saude Chapel, Mazalvaddo. The Parish has a well set Parish Pastoral Council and has begun the Small Christian Communities. One such community has been selected as a model for the whole of Goa Archdiocese. The Chapel of Our Lady of Health, as also the Sacred Heart of Jesus High School, Mazalvaddo are situated in this Parish, besides other smaller chapels. Presently Fr. Agapito D’Cunha is the Parish Priest and Fr. Nelson Antao is the Assistant Parish Priest. Fr. Nixon D’Silva is the Chaplain and Manager of the DSE School at Mazalvaddo.

KADAWAL
It is situated in Kudal taluka of Sindhudurg District, Maharashtra and belongs to the Pune Diocese. Formerly a part of the parish at Phonaswade the Chapel of Kadawal was raised to a Parish by Bishop Valerian D’Souza and entrusted to the Pilar Fathers on 18th June 1989 with Fr. Agnelo D’Souza as Parish Priest and Bro. Inacio D’Souza to assist him. Though the chapel was dedicated to St. Francis Xavier, it was then dedicated to the Holy Spirit at the behest of the Bishop of Pune. There is a Parish Pastoral Council and Small Christian Communities where programmes are being conducted regularly. Presently, Fr. Orlando Lopes is the Parish Priest and Fr. Longinus Tirkey is his Assistant. Efforts are on to begin some activity that will be in keeping with the needs of the people.

PATNE (BELGAUM DIOCESE)
On the invitation of Bishop Bernard Moras of Belgaum, we visited a couple prospective areas. But we settled for the Mission of Chandgad with headquarters of the mission at Chandgad Village which is about 14 kms from the nearest Parish of Patne. Initially, two of our members, Fr. Santiago Fernandes and Fr. Alex Souza were sent out with their temporary base at Patne Parish from where they would identify the exact location of the future Church and our residence. When, the Bishop could not find any of his Diocesan priests to head the Parish at Patne after he had effected transfers. Hence, in November 2002, Fr. Santiago was appointed the first Pilar Father as Parish Priest at Patne and Fr. Alex was appointed as the Mission Coordinator of Chandgad Mission. His Excellency, Bishop Bernard Moras simultaneously bifurcated the Parish at Patne. The second part, namely Chandgad and the surrounding areas of Kannur, Gaushe, Hindgaon, thus formed the Chandgad Mission. But till date the Parish at Patne is still with the Pilar Fathers and if offered to us we shall gladly accept it.

Chandgad Mission is having a predominatly Hindu-Muslim population. There are hardly 25 Christian families in the area. They have no Church or Chapel to celebrate the Eucharist, which is usually conducted in private homes. Our task has been cut out for us: we will have to establish or plant the Church and develop the place and lead the community to Christian maturity. Prior to our Fathers stepping into this Mission, they were deputed to study Marathi at the Marathi Language Study Centre, Kolhapur for three months so that they were effectively prepared to work in these Marathi-speaking areas. The Christian speak Konkani while the majority of the people and the Government Machinery deal in Marathi. A Pilar Community has been established at Patne.

PROVINCIALATE (MARGAO)
For many years our Regionalate was functioning at Prerna, Curchorem. Since our activities has increased manifold, there was a genuine felt need of shifting the same to a more central place. This was perceived as a priority especially because of the “extended” Region – the communities in Agonda, Anjuna and Kadawal.

God in his goodness fulfilled our desire and need in 2002 when we found a generous benefactor, Mr. Jose Antonio Fernandes. The latter gifted us a house in the heart of Margao City. Fr. Lino Florindo began residing in that house for a few months before Fr. Peter Gomes joined him. At present this house functions as our Provincialate and the community consists of: Rev. Fr. Galdino Monteiro (Provincial), Fr. Romeo D’Silva (Secretary), and Fr. Derrick Rodrigues (Treasurer).

For questions or comments regarding this web site, please send email to the website administrator or  Fr. Agnelo Gomes, sfx.
Last modified: 12/07/05