A Joyful Celebration of the Canonization of St. Maria Troncatti Holiness Blossoms in Missionary Love

The Province of St. Mary Mazzarello, Mumbai (INB), joined the Universal Church in a spirit of profound joy and gratitude to celebrate the Canonization of St. Maria Troncatti, FMA. The solemn celebration took place on 26th October 2025 at Our Lady of Fatima Shrine, Panjim, marking a moment of grace and inspiration for all who share in her Salesian heritage.

The celebration was preceded by a preparatory session on “Holiness in the Salesian Family” conducted by Rev. Fr. Ian Figueirdo, SDB, on the previous afternoon. Fr. Ian masterfully unfolded the essence of holiness as the foremost purpose of every vocation, reminding participants that to be “salt and light” is to be saints in the world. Drawing from the writings of the Founders, the Constitutions, the Rector Major, and the teachings of Popes Francis and Leo XIV…, he outlined eight paths to holiness—meekness, compassion, mercy, purity of heart, and the courage to sow peace amid trials. His thought-provoking session concluded with moments of personal reflection, gently inviting all to rediscover their individual call to sanctity.

The enriching session ushered the community into a solemn vigil service in honour of the newly canonized saint. Hearts were deeply moved as the participants reflected on the heroic life and missionary fervour of St. Maria Troncatti among the Shuar tribes of Ecuador. The serene prayer moments inspired all to renew their desire to embody holiness in daily living, following the luminous example of Sr. Maria, who poured out her life in love and service. Later that evening, Rev. Sr. Meenakshi D’Silva, Provincial, shared a moving testimony of her experience at the Vatican during the canonization ceremony on 19th October 2025, when St. Maria Troncatti was declared a saint alongside seven others. She recounted the extraordinary Miracle of Juwa—the miraculous healing of a Shuar man through St. Maria’s intercession—which became the definitive sign of her sanctity. Sr. Meenakshi also noted that while an earlier miracle from Europe was accepted for her beatification, this second miracle among the Shuar tribes was recognized for her canonization. Remarkably, these two groups had once been enemies, yet through Sr. Maria’s compassion and courage, peace and reconciliation blossomed—earning her the title “Artisan of Peace and Reconciliation.”

The following morning, the celebration reached its spiritual summit with an animated morning prayer and a solemn Eucharistic celebration presided over by Most Rev. Bishop Alwyn Barreto at the Our Lady of Fatima Shrine. The homily, delivered by Rev. Fr. Clive Telles, SDB, Provincial of the Panjim Province, reflected on the virtues of St. Maria Troncatti, portraying her as a humble missionary, a healer, and an “angel of the jungle.” He highlighted her unwavering faith, practical charity, and courageous spirit that transformed suffering into joy and service into sanctity—reminding all that holiness is a daily choice rooted in love. The presence of numerous Salesian priests and sisters from various congregations added splendour and joy to the celebration.

After the Eucharist, the faithful gathered in the parish hall for a delightful felicitation programme hosted by the Caranzalem community, under the leadership of Rev. Sr. Joanita Antao, FMA. The event was meticulously organized with great dedication and precision. The students of Caranzalem School presented a creative song dramatizing the life and mission of St. Maria Troncatti, while the Benaulim School performed a traditional Shuar tribal dance that vividly portrayed her missionary journey in Ecuador. The young participants further enlivened the celebration with vibrant praise songs and soulful Konkani folk melodies that reflected the beauty of Goan culture. A number of sisters’ families also joined in the celebration, their presence adding warmth and joy to the occasion.

In her concluding address, Rev. Sr. Meenakshi D’Silva expressed heartfelt gratitude and admiration for the inspiring legacy of St. Maria Troncatti—her courage, compassion, and missionary zeal that continue to illuminate countless hearts. The programme concluded with warm words of appreciation from Sr. Mangala Kolge, acknowledging all who contributed to making the celebration meaningful and memorable. The day culminated with a festive meal shared in fraternal joy, leaving every heart filled with gratitude and renewed commitment to holiness.

Truly, the Canonization of St. Maria Troncatti rekindled in every participant the desire to live holiness with joy, simplicity, and missionary courage—continuing her legacy of faith, love, and service to the most forgotten corners of the world.

“I do not fear death, because I am always in the hands of God.”
— St. Maria Troncatti, FMA