On November 6, 2025, the Adorers community in Velsao-Goa (India) celebrated with deep joy 25 years of its presence in this region. A Jubilee lived as a time of grateful memory, prayer, and renewal of commitment to the girls, young women, and women accompanied during these two and a half decades of mission.
Thanksgiving in Community
The day began with a solemn Eucharist of thanksgiving, celebrated in the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption. It was presided over by Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrao, Archbishop of Goa and Baman, accompanied by the Episcopal Vicar for Religious Life in Goa, Fr. Joaquim, the parish priest, and several concelebrating priests.
Religious sisters from different congregations, benefactors, former students of the Navajyothi Rehabilitation Centre, as well as Adoratrices sisters from various communities attended the celebration.
The Cardinal focused his homily on gratitude and the memory of God’s wonders, inviting everyone to recognize His presence throughout these years of Adoration and accompaniment in the processes of Liberation for women in vulnerable situations.
After the Eucharist, the community publicly expressed its gratitude to all those who have supported these 25 years of service, highlighting the dedication and enthusiasm of collaborators.
25 Years Serving Dignity
Since its foundation, the Sisters Adorers community has led the Navajyothi Rehabilitation Centre, a project that has provided comprehensive support to more than 150 girls and young women from fragile family contexts (broken, abused, marginalized, or poor families), orphans, abandoned by their parents and/or living on the streets, as well as single mothers.
Over the years, the center has offered:
- education,
- vocational training,
- tutoring and mentoring,
- psychological and spiritual support,
- access to healthcare,
- processes of healing and personal growth.
Additionally, the community has promoted support programs in Baina, such as tutoring centers, sewing courses, self-help groups, and family visits.
Among the most notable achievements, several young women have completed university studies, others have trained as nurses, and one achieved second place in a postgraduate program in Political Science at Goa University. Today, many work and sustain their homes with dignity.
Accompanying New Realities
Currently, the community also supports migrants and poor women in the area through initiatives such as a sewing workshop, training sessions on health, values, and self-care, and visits to vulnerable families.
All this work expresses the desire to continue being a sign of hope and liberating presence in Velsao.
A Jubilee Lived in Adoration
As a special gesture of thanksgiving, the community began an extended Eucharistic Adoration on November 4, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., with the participation of local sisters and people close to the mission.
A space of silence and prayer to recognize God’s presence throughout these 25 years of shared life.
Community Celebration
After Mass, a festive program took place, including performances by young women from the center and women accompanied by the community.
One of the most emotional moments was the interpretation of a “mando” (Goan folk dance) dedicated to Saint Maria Micaela, sung by the daughter of a former resident.
Speakers included Sr. Yogini, Vice-Provincial; priests linked to the community; Mr. Antone Barretto, from the family that donated the land for the center; and several lay women close to the project.
Sr. Elsy closed the gathering by thanking the collaboration, dedication, and fidelity of all the sisters, girls, women, trainees, and collaborators who have been part of Velsao’s history.
The celebration concluded with a fraternal meal in an atmosphere of great joy.
Grateful Memory, Renewed Hope
Looking back on the journey, the community recognizes God’s loving presence, sustained in daily prayer and countless silent acts of service.
Inspired by the Word —“hope does not disappoint” (Rom 5:5)—, the sisters renew their desire to continue serving with the same passion, hope, and dedication that have marked these first 25 years.
