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Goa, March 31, 2025 - The sacred walls of St. Anthony's Chapel in Old Goa resonated with divine melodies on Sunday evening during a special sacred music concert. Held on March 30, the concert was graced by Archbishop Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão, Archbishop of Goa and Daman, who commended Fr. Romeo Monteiro and his team for creating "a profound musical meditation on Christ's Passion. “The season of Lent is the most important season where we reflect on the Passion of Jesus and celebrate His Resurrection. In this context, tonight’s concert is a special one,” said the Prelate.

In his address, Cardinal Ferrão reflected on the Church’s synodal journey, emphasizing Pope Francis’ call for a synodal Church marked by communion, participation, and mission. “We are the chosen people of God, a community of disciples, baptized followers of Jesus, called to journey in intimacy with Him, building communion and proclaiming the Good News,” the Archbishop said.

The Cardinal,  the president of FABC and CCBI,  also highlighted the significance of the Lenten season, noting its importance in the liturgical year as a time of reflection on the passion and resurrection of Jesus. "This concert, in particular, takes on a special meaning as we reflect on the themes of Lent," he shared.

Cardinal Ferrão praised Fr. Romeo Monteiro for creating not just a musical experience but a spiritually enriching one. “Fr. Romeo has been offering us a means to connect with God through sacred music and reflections on His Word,” he said, emphasizing that the evening’s focus was on meditation, not just music. “Fr. Romeo certainly deserves our appreciation for this successful concert,” he added.

The concert, featuring soaring melodies and solemn tones, invited attendees into deep meditation, focusing on repentance, hope, and grace. The Archbishop also connected the concert to the Jubilee Year 2025, encouraging all to embrace the spirit of pilgrimage, reconciliation, and peace.

Under the direction of Fr. Romeo Monteiro, Chancellor of the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman and Director of the Western Music Department at Kala Academy, the concert celebrated the beauty of Catholic sacred music. It provided the community with a spiritual experience and an opportunity to reflect on the mysteries of the faith through the power of music and song.

 Fr. Romeo Monteiro welcomed  and expressed his sentiments of gratitude to all who supported in organizing this concert. The programme featured a wide range of hymns, including: Hymn of the Jubilee Year 2025 (on Hope), Khorench Sangtam Pedru Tuka (Motet in Konkani), Stabat Mater (in English translation) by German composer Josef Rheinberger, Ho Poi Taka Ami Polletanv (Traditional Veronica song in Konkani), Koxttovta Jiv Mhozo (Motet in Konkani), Vochat, Xubhvortoman Porgott Korat (based on the theme of the Pastoral Year 2024-25), Worthy is the Lamb Who Was Slain (from The Messiah by G. F. Handel), Bapa Porim Doyall Zayat (a hymn).
In addition to the musical pieces, Divina Dias led the congregation in spiritual meditations, encouraging reflection during the Lenten season.

What made the event particularly special was its community spirit. The 62 performers were not professional musicians but a collective of devoted Catholics and sacred music enthusiasts who came together specifically for this Lenten celebration. The ensemble included: A four-part adult choir featuring voices like soprano, Alto, Tenor and bass. A children's section with young talents  and a full orchestra with string, wind and brass sections.

The concert was a beautiful blend of sacred music, reflection, and community spirit, offering a deeply spiritual experience for all the attendees. The sacred music concert will also be held at Betalbatim Church, with Bishop Simião Fernandes as the Chief Guest.