'Faith has grown stronger, hope in God has deepened'

The Walking Pilgrims on their way to the old Sancoale Church.

Photo Credits: Joseph Fernandes

THE GOAN | PANAJI

The Archdiocese of Goa and Daman's 7th Annual Walking Pilgrimage on March 9  drew 28,000 participants, who began a 10 km journey from five locations at 2 a.m.

The pilgrimage focused on meditating on the cross, with scenes from Christ's passion along the way. Participants prayed, recited the rosary, and sang hymns, concluding at Old Sancoale Church with Adoration and a Eucharistic celebration. Some shared their experiences with THE GOAN.

Sharmila Sequeira from Bicholim, who has been participating in the walking pilgrimage every year, shared her experience. She described it as "one particular event organized by our Diocese which we eagerly look forward to participating in every Lent."

 

“It has spiritually helped me to reflect on the sufferings of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Sharmila said. 

While acknowledging the physical challenge of the walk, she added, "As we are not habituated to walking much, our legs do pain for the next 2-3 days, but when we reflect on the sufferings of our Saviour, we feel this pain is nothing in comparison to what He suffered."

Over the years of participating in the pilgrimage, Sharmila has also gained personal strength to face the  struggles that come her way. 

Gaby Fernandes from Agonda, sharing his spiritual experience, described it as one of the most profound journeys of his life. “It helped me reflect inwardly and renew myself, while also allowing me to meditate on Jesus' Way of the Cross,” he said.

According to Gaby, his faith has grown stronger, and his hope in God has deepened. He, who has participated in all the walking pilgrimages, added, “It holds even more meaning during the Lenten season

Sr. Crina Cardozo Sfn, Animator of Nirmala Convent, Mastimoll, Canacona, reflected on a profound realization she had during the pilgrimage: even amidst a crowd, Jesus remains our constant companion, always present and available. This truth deeply resonated with her, reminding her of Jesus' sacrifice on the cross for her.

Inspired by this realization, Sr. Crina renewed her commitment to focus on the cross, surrender her life to Him, and rely on His strength through the ups and downs of life.

Natalia Fernandes, a youth from Pernem Parish, shared her experience of joining the walking pilgrimage for the first time. As she walked, Natalia felt a deep spiritual connection, sharing, "When I was walking, I felt that God was calling me."

Despite the long journey, she didn’t feel tired. She also highlighted the significance of writing down her prayers and submitting them to a volunteer.

She added, "Through this pilgrimage, I felt a sense of relief, as all my stress went away." She also noted the large participation, with many people joining in prayer and reciting the rosary together.

Fr. Mathew Fernandes, SFX, former Provincial of the Goa Province of the Society of Pilar, expressed his appreciation for the pilgrimage, saying it was heartening to see hundreds of people praying, singing, and reflecting on the mysteries and love of God.

"For me personally, it was an enriching experience to see how people devote themselves, walking and sacrificing for their own good, the good of others, and for the Church," Fr. Mathew shared.

He also offered a prayer for the pilgrims, saying, "I pray that these faithful enjoy good health and continue this journey, not only to Sancoale but throughout their lives."