Goa Archbishop's Christmas Message (2007) It is Christmas once again. Our beautiful villages and towns are dressed up for the festivities. It warms our hearts to see how our people in Goa -- regardless of religion -- come together to celebrate their sense of neighbourhood, their sense of belonging and their sense of caring for each other. The celebration of sharing in our homes and parishes during this joyful season is a matter of delightful pride. It is as if we become a human family again.
May this spirit continue throughout the New Year. Amidst the difficulties that we face in life, amidst the mindless wars and ruthless violence that surround us, amidst the grave injustices and exploitation that mark our era, may we find ever new and creative ways to resonate with the song of joy and with the promise of peace brought by the Birth of Jesus Christ. As we wish, with great warmth, a truly Joyful and Grace-filled Christmas to everyone in this State of Goa, we would like to re-commit ourselves to be bearers of justice, promoters of peace and witnesses to truth to all people, far and wide, near and dear. + Filipe Neri Ferrao Archbishop of Goa and Daman