The 96th death anniversary of Venerable Agnelo de Souza will be celebrated in Pilar on November 20, 2023, accompanied by Novenas that commence on November 11. The central theme of this celebration is “Walking together, in the footsteps of Ven. Agnelo to our sanctification.” Leading the solemn occasion, Archbishop Patriarch Most Rev. Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrao, (Archdiocese of Goa & Daman), will preside over the 9:30 am Solemn Mass on November 20. The day will be marked by multiple Masses conducted at various times – 5:30 am, 6:45 am, 8 am, 11:30 am, 4 pm, 5:15 pm, and 6:15 pm.
Venerable Agnelo de Souza (1869-1927), a revered priest hailing from the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman and a distinguished member of the Society of Pilar, was born in Anjuna on January 21, 1869. The canonization process for this venerable figure is currently underway in Rome. The Novena, spanning from November 11 to 19, is dedicated to specific prayers each day. These include November 11 (Youth), November 12 (Family), November 13 (Priests and Religious), November 14 (Children and Vocation), November 15 (Civil Leaders), November 16 (Missions), November 17 (Sick), November 18 (Environment), and November 19 (Laity).
Notably, a Night Vigil is scheduled for November 17 from 9:30 pm to 5 am. Furthermore, Masses in different languages will be held on specific days, such as Malayalam Mass on November 19 at 11:30 am, Hindi Mass on November 19 at 11:30 am, and Tamil Mass on November 12 at 11:30 am. A special Mass for the sick is also scheduled for November 17 at 10:30 am, with each Mass being followed by a Novena prayer and prayers for the sick. Additionally, priests will be available for confessions and counselling throughout this spiritual event.
