Fr. Remedios Britto Furtado was one of those faithful souls who entered through Jesus and is now saved for eternity. After leaving this world on October 14, his life of devotion and service continues to inspire all who knew him. His legacy of love and faith will be treasured as he rests in the peace of God's presence, serving as a guiding light for others on their spiritual journeys.
Born on October 8, 1946, to Rosario Soter Furtado and Idalina Moniz, Britto grew up in Gaunsavaddo, Mapusa. He began his education as a boarder at St. Britto High School, where his active participation in Christian activities, including the Confrades, nurtured his spiritual growth and deepened his relationship with God, ultimately guiding him toward a life of faith and service in the priesthood.
His journey began at the Pilar Seminary, where he entered at the tender age of 11, demonstrating an early commitment to his vocation. Continuing his formation at Rachol Seminary, he was ordained on April 29, 1973, by Archbishop Raul Nicolau Gonçalves during the centenary celebration of Mae De Deus Church, Saligao. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of a life dedicated to serving the Church and its faithful, grounded in profound spirituality.
After a year of service at the Pastoral Institute, Old Goa, Fr. Britto’s first pastoral role was as assistant parish priest at St. Michael Church, Anjuna, where he faithfully served for four years. In 1981, he was assigned for a brief period to Our Lady of Gloria Church, Varca, and thereafter appointed chaplain at Our Lady of Patrocinio Chapel in Pulvaddo, Benaulim. There, he dedicated 11 years of ministry, offering spiritual guidance to the community.
Fr. Britto served as the parish priest at Mother of God Church in Majorda from 1993 to 1999, while also managing St. Anthony’s High School. He then moved to St. Andrew Church, Vasco-da-Gama, where he continued his dual role as parish priest and manager of the Higher Secondary School. Between 2006 and 2014, he was a parish priest at St. Anthony Church, Siolim.
Thereafter, he took over as parish priest of Our Lady of Merces Church, Merces, while managing the Diocesan school, demonstrating his commitment to spiritual leadership and education.
After a long and devoted spiritual journey, Fr. Britto retired in 2022 at the age of 75. He remained active as a priest on staff at St. Michael Church in Taleigão.
On April 29, 2023, the golden jubilee of Fr. Britto and his companion priests was celebrated with a Mass at Holy Spirit Church in Margão, presided over by Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão. A special Mass on May 1, 2023, at St. Michael Church, Taleigão, marked his 50 years of dedicated service with the community and fellow priests.
Fr. Britto was renowned for his exceptional preaching style, captivating his congregation by starting his sermons with a compelling story that engaged listeners before transitioning into the Gospel message. His ability to connect personal experiences with spiritual teachings left a lasting impact on his audience, inspiring many to deepen their faith. Through his compassionate ministry, he touched countless lives by officiating at numerous weddings, first holy communions, baptisms, and funerals, offering guidance, comfort, and spiritual support.
After celebrating his 78th birthday on October 8, 2024, Fr. Britto peacefully passed away on October 14, 2024 at around 7:30 AM. His funeral will be held on October 17 at 4 pm at St. Jerome Church, Mapusa.
