Panaji: Archbishop of Goa and Daman, Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrao, has called for special prayers for timely and sufficient rain to be offered on June 21. The archbishop, in a circular, stated that June 21 should be observed across the archdiocese as a day of intensified prayers for rain in churches, chapels, institutions, homes, and during eucharistic celebrations, meetings, and family rosaries.
Prayers for Rain and Agriculture
Ferrao emphasized that prayers must be offered to seek blessings for timely and sufficient rain to protect those affected by drought and water scarcity, and to sustain all who depend on agriculture and natural resources for their livelihood. The St Joseph Vaz Spiritual Renewal Centre, Cruz Dos Milagres, Old Goa, is hosting a special Eucharistic adoration to pray for rain at 6pm on June 21. Inspired by the theme, “I will send rain on your land in its season” (Deut. 11:14), the prayer service will bring together the faithful in adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, seeking God’s blessings for timely and sufficient rain and the well-being of all.
National Day of Prayer Over FCRA Concerns
Ferrao, echoing the concerns of the Catholic Bishops Conference of India, announced that June 28 will be observed as a national day of prayer for the country, particularly in view of the FCRA Amendment Bill 2026. This bill is expected to be considered during the forthcoming monsoon session of Parliament and has raised concerns regarding its possible negative impact on the charitable, educational, healthcare, and social ministries carried out by the Catholic Church in India. Ferrao requested pastoral clergy and superiors of religious communities in the archdiocese to observe the day as a day of prayer for the nation. “Let us pray particularly for those entrusted with public responsibility, and for the freedom of the Church to carry out her mission of service to society and nation-building,” he said.
