A Faithful Worker in His Vineyard

SVD Mission Seminary, Raia came alive on 16 December 2021 during the conclusion of the birth centenary celebrations of its founder late Fr. Peter Verhaelen. During the year various activities related to the life and mission of Fr. Peter were organized and many people participated in the events and celebrated his life and contributions to the Church, Society and the people. The solemn Eucharistic celebration organized for the concluding celebrations was presided over by His Grace Filipe Neri Ferrao, Archbishop of Goa along with Fr. Richard Mathias, Provincial-INM, Fr Joaquim Fernandes, Rector, SVD Seminary, Raia and other priests. Many friends and well-wishers of Fr. Peter were also present for the Mass and drew inspiration from a model and saintly Divine Word Missionary, Fr. Peter who came from Germany, lived, served and died in Goa. In his homily, Archbishop Filipe Neri Ferrao stressed on Fr. Peter Verhaelen’s work as a priest as well as his efforts to reach out to the people. He said that Fr. Peter was a worker in the vineyard of the Lord who worked upholding the dignity of labour and with excellent skills. After the Mass, there was a ballet named ‘Vavraddi’ – A labourer, written by Agnelo de Borim and directed by  Gokuldas Borkar, The play began with a scene in Germany during the World War II when Fr. Peter was taken to be a male nurse. The story epitomized the personality and virtues of Fr. Peter. In fond memory of Fr. Peter a booklet depicting his life journey was released with the title, “A Faithful Worker in His Vineyard”. The life of Fr. Peter has been so magnanimous and exemplary that hundreds of people remember him till date for his unforgettable humble nature, indomitable spirit of hard work, passion for nature, animals and of course, the holiness of a true missionary.