Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji

Panaji, Jun 20: Archbishop of Goa and Daman Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrao has appealed to the faithful across the archdiocese to offer special prayers on June 21 for timely and adequate rainfall amid concerns over drought and water scarcity.

In a circular issued to churches and religious institutions, Cardinal Ferrao said June 21 should be observed as a day of intensified prayer throughout the archdiocese, with prayers to be held in churches, chapels, educational institutions, homes, Eucharistic celebrations, meetings and family rosaries.

He urged devotees to pray for sufficient rainfall to safeguard communities affected by water shortages and to support people whose livelihoods depend on agriculture and natural resources.

A special Eucharistic adoration service will also be organised at the St Joseph Vaz Spiritual Renewal Centre at Cruz Dos Milagres in Old Goa at 6 p.m. on June 21.

Inspired by the biblical theme, “I will send rain on your land in its season” (Deuteronomy 11:14), the prayer gathering will bring together worshippers before the Blessed Sacrament to seek divine blessings for timely rainfall and the well-being of all communities.

Cardinal Ferrao also echoed concerns raised by the Catholic Bishops' Conference of India regarding the proposed FCRA Amendment Bill 2026.

He announced that June 28 would be observed nationwide as a day of prayer for the country, particularly in light of concerns that the proposed legislation, expected to be taken up during the upcoming monsoon session of Parliament, could adversely affect the charitable, educational, healthcare and social service activities undertaken by the Catholic Church in India.

The Archbishop requested all pastoral clergy and heads of religious communities within the archdiocese to participate in the observance.

“Let us pray especially for those entrusted with public responsibilities and for the freedom of the Church to continue its mission of serving society and contributing to nation-building,” he said.