CORTALIM: Stating that the process of canonization of Blessed Joseph Vaz had reached its zenith, Rector of Sancoale Sanctuary and Vice-Postulator (Goa) for the cause of canonization of Vaz, Fr Eremito Rebello made a plea for fervent prayers for his canonisation.
The possibility of Blessed Vaz attaining sainthood soon assumes significance following the three-day visit of Pope Francis to Sri Lanka on January 13, 14 and 15 next year. Blessed Vaz was beatified by late Pope John Paul II at Galle in Sri Lanka in 1995.
In his homily at a Mass organised for Sri Lankan pilgrims in Sancoale, Archbishop Filipe Neri Ferrao told the devotees that “although we come from different countries with different language, we were all united in faith.”
The archbishop said Blessed Vaz whose faith was deeply rooted helped in building communions and fellowships among the people of Mangalore and Sri Lanka during his missionary work and brought about renewal in society and changed Sri Lanka’s history. He also prayed for early canonisation of Blessed Vaz and that all of us may be inspired by Blessed Vaz’ undaunted faith.
