Team Herald
OLD GOA: Referring to Beatitudes as identity card of every Christian and living the same as a stepping stone to holiness, Auxiliary Bishop of Mumbai, Rev Bartol Baretto on Monday said St Francis Xavier proclaimed the Good News and followed Christ by living the Beatitudes.
In his homily at the solemn feast Mass of St Francis Xavier at Bom Jesus Basilica, Old Goa on Monday, he said, “Although Francis came from a rich family and he desired name and fame, God’s plan was different for him and through St Ignatius de Loyola, the transformation followed, prompting him to live the Beatitudes.”
Rev Baretto said, “We need to follow St Francis by living the Beatitudes in our daily life. When we reflect on the Beatitudes, we should not forget that it was Christ’s first sermon to the people along with his apostles. Throughout his life, from birth to death, Christ embodied the Beatitudes.”
Recollecting the Apostolic Exaltation of Pope Francis, the Auxiliary Bishop said Pope stated that the Beatitudes are identity card of every Christian.
“If efforts are made to live the Beatitudes, then we will surely grow in holiness,’ he said.
Rev Baretto said, “Through the sacrament of Baptism, we have become part of Christ and through the same sacrament we are filled with God’s grace. Christian identity is not an option, but all efforts must be made to live a true Christian life.”
He stated that St Francis is a true model to follow Christ and be His true followers. He said in his daily life, Francis lived the Beatitudes and was a true Christian identity to the non-Christians.
“St Francis was a missionary of mercy, and though he did not speak much, he drew many people to God. Proclamation of Good News begins in the families and if we live the Beatitudes, we can attain holiness,” he said.
“All are called to be poor in spirit and all are invited to see and act with mercy. We must keep our hearts free to love. We are finally called to be faithful to the Gospel even in the face of persecutions,” he added.
The festive Mass was concelebrated by the Bishop of Sindhudurg Diocese, Rev Alwyn Baretto and Archbishop of Goa and Daman Diocese, Rev Filipe Neri Ferrao.
At the onset, the Archbishop of Goa, Rev Ferrao welcomed various dignitaries and at the end of the celebration, the Rector of Bom Jesus Basilica, Fr Patrocino proposed the vote of thanks.
Besides government officials, Monsieur Habier Fernandes, Councillor at Vatican Embassy in New Delhi was also present.
People of different faiths and from every nook and corner of the state flocked to Old Goa till late evening, paying homage and seeking favours from “Goencho Saib”. The huge fair put near the Gandhi Chowk was crowded.
