The Patriarchal Seminary of Rachol and Good Shepherd Institute of Theology solemnly inaugurated its formative and academic year 2024-2025 on 1st June 2024. The solemn Eucharist celebration was presided over by His Eminence Most Rev. Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrao and was con-celebrated by Auxiliary Bishop Simiao P. Fernandes and Vicar General Fr. Jose Remedios Fernandes along with other priests. The following theme was chosen for the formative year: Proclaimers of the Gospel in Formation and Ministry. This year 12 seminarians from the final year of theology received their Rite of Admission to Candidacy for Holy Orders and 8 seminarians from the first year of philosophy had the privilege of wearing the cassock of the very first time.
The inaugural function began with the lighting of the lamp by the dignitaries along with the seminary staff and seminarians. The Rector of the seminary Rev. Fr. Donato Rodrigues officially welcomed the gathering especially the first year philosophy seminarians to the Major Seminary. The highlight of the event was the Lectio Brevis delivered by Rev. Fr. Nelson Siqueira. Similarly, the Santa Cecilia Choir presented an instrumental and a choral piece to entertain the audience. His Eminence Most Rev. Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrao in His address enlightened us on the Pastoral Theme keeping in mind the Jubilee Year and the Exposition of the Sacred Relics of Saint Francis Xavier.
The seminary also witnessed the annual paddy transplanting with seminarians, youth, students and locals from various villages. A total of 120 locals, 50 youth, priests and seminarians went into the fields. The yield of this plantation is used for consumption by the seminary throughout the year. The day ended with a fellowship tea enjoyed by all.