Every year on 24th June, Goa celebrates the Feast of St. John the Baptist, popularly known as São João, with great joy and enthusiasm. Since it is celebrated during the monsoon season, this vibrant festival beautifully blends faith, culture, and community spirit. The feast honours St. John the Baptist, the prophet who baptized Jesus in the River Jordan. According to Christian tradition, John leaped with joy in his mother’s womb when Mary, carrying the infant Jesus, visited Elizabeth. This spirit of joy continues to be the hallmark of the celebration.
Inspired by this rich Goan tradition, Nishkalanka Seva Home, a home for senior citizens managed by the Pallottine Missionary Sisters at Reeswadi, Maharashtra, celebrated the feast with great enthusiasm, reflecting the cultural heritage of its many Goan residents.
The celebration was organized under the guidance of the Administrator, Sr. Dr. Mary Eugine Nirmala, who warmly welcomed everyone to the occasion. The event manager Sr. Antonieta Rodrigues shared the significance and traditions of the Feast of St. John the Baptist, followed by a moment of prayerful reflection with a hymn highlighting the life and mission of the saint.
A special feature of the celebration was the crowning ceremony. The Administrator began by placing a traditional floral crown (kopel) on the seniors and presenting them with baskets of seasonal fruits, symbolizing joy, gratitude, and God’s abundant blessings. The residents were then crowned one by one, creating a festive and heartwarming atmosphere. Fruits were shared with everyone as a sign of fellowship and celebration.
The programme concluded with lively music and joyful dancing, with the senior residents, sisters, staff, and guests participating wholeheartedly, fostering a spirit of unity, happiness, and togetherness. The celebration was made even more special by the presence and support of Mr. John Colaso, his wife Mrs. Marieanna Colaso, and Mrs. Assunta, their neighbours, who generously assisted in the preparations and joined in the festivities.
The celebration beautifully reflected the mission of Nishkalanka Seva Home—to nurture not only the physical well-being of its residents but also their cultural identity, faith, and sense of belonging through meaningful community celebrations.
Text: Sr. Sinha Pereira, SAC
Photos: Sr. Antonieta Rodrigues, SAC