A NEW SPRING IN XELLIM
It was a jubilant atmosphere at Xellim on 21st of December 2018 due to the four-fold celebration:
- The Sacerdotal Silver Jubilee of Fr. John Sequeira and his 55th birthday
- The Sacerdotal Ruby Jubilee of Fr. Charles Serrao (Provincial) and
- The inauguration of the New Block of Divine Springs: A Centre for Contemplative Prayer, Youth Animation and Family Life

Most Rev. Filipe Neri Ferrão, Archbishop-Patriarch of Goa and Daman, said the prayer of blessing and Fr. Provincial inaugurated the new edifice of "Divine Springs," which is a block consisting of 18 self-contained rooms and a Chapel. The Solemn Mass of Thanksgiving followed. At the end there was a short felicitation programme, interspersed by cultural items from the children of St Sebastian’s School, Loliem and St Michael’s convent, Karwar.

Fr. Archibald Gonsalves was the toast master. As he enjoys a close friendship with Fr. John Sequeira for over 30 years, he unravelled the person and highlighted some of his unique qualities. In his speech, Fr. Charles Serrao shared how he was hesitant to send Fr. John Sequeira to Xellim, as he has many resources which could be utilized in other developed centres. Yet, on his insistence he gave in and today we see the long-standing dream of a retreat centre at Xellim, realized through him.

In his vote of thanks Fr. John Sequeira recalled all those who have stood by him in his years as a priest, and especially those who contributed in many ways to this project of Divine Springs. Fr. Mark Furtado was the compere of the programme. The function ended with a meal prepared by the local people.

Three cheers to Fr. John Sequeira, the visionary and the community members, past and present, who supported him: Frs. Peter D’Sa, Henry Moras, Teodosio Fernandes and Stephen Lobo.

The centre now has 40 self-contained rooms with 100 bed facility. Please make it known so that many may avail themselves of the spiritual ministry of our friars.