The annual Feast of the Miraculous Holy Cross at Val-Agonda was celebrated with heartfelt faith and devotion, attracting parishioners from Agonda as well as devotees from across the state. This cherished tradition in the local Catholic community saw hundreds gather to express gratitude for blessings received and to present their prayers at the revered Holy Cross.
During the feast mass, Fr. Aidan Fernandes, a native of Agonda, delivered an inspiring homily. He encouraged the congregation to become missionaries of God’s word in their daily lives, emphasizing, “You do not need to be priests or nuns to spread God’s message. As laypeople, we can share the Good News through our everyday actions.”
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The solemn celebration was co-celebrated by Agonda Parish Priest Fr. Patrick Luis, Assistant Parish Priest Fr. Baltazar Fernandes, Fr. Octavino Cunha, Fr. Darrell Fernandes, and Fr. Sean Cardozo. The mass was preceded by a traditional litany at the Holy Cross, setting a reverent tone for the event.
Preparations for the feast began with a triduum of masses starting on Sunday, which drew large crowds over three days of prayerful anticipation. The main feast mass on Wednesday welcomed not only Catholics but also non-Catholic villagers and visitors from other parts of Goa, reflecting the inclusive spirit of the celebration.
This year, the festivities were further supported by the St. Anne’s Boys of Agonda, currently residing and working in Houston, Texas, USA, who generously contributed towards the feast’s expenses.
The celebrations concluded on a cultural note with a performance of the award-winning Konkani drama “Daddy’s Home,” directed by Fr. Milton Rodrigues. The play was staged in the church compound and warmly received by the gathered community.
