The Diocesan phase of the investigation into the life and virtues of Msgr. George Fernandes has concluded. This marked a significant milestone in the process of potentially declaring him a saint. The closing session of this phase was held with solemn reverence, as clergy and laity gathered to honour his memory and work.
Msgr. George Fernandes, Founder of the Poor Sisters of Our Lady (PSOL), and a priest of the Archdiocese of Bombay, was declared a Servant of God, on September 14, 2019. He lived a holy life and gave himself totally to God and to his people. A team of priests and religious nuns then took on the task of investigating Msgr. George Fernandes’ life further and that led to the closing of the Diocesan Phase.
The closing ceremony was held in the Divine Child Church Hall, Andheri, presided over by His Eminence, Cardinal Oswald Gracias, Archbishop of Bombay. The ceremony was attended by nuns, priests and notaries who bowed respectfully before a photograph of Msgr. Fernandes.
Sr. Romana PSOL initiated the session with a heartfelt welcome speech. She set the tone for the ceremony, highlighting the importance of the occasion. Oswald Cardinal Gracias then presided over the inauguration of the closing session, delivering a speech that reflected on the impact Msgr. George Fernandes had on the community and the Cardinal himself.
This was followed with a detailed profile of Msgr. George Fernandes, tracing his life from his birth on April 23, 1903, through his various accomplishments, to his death on June 2, 1970. This narrative painted a vivid picture of his dedication, holiness and the virtues he practised throughout his life.
Cardinal Oswald, along with the investigating team of Fr. Shavito Correia, Fr. Lester Vaz , Sr. Romana Fernandes, and Sr. Laurencia Pereira, took oaths in front of the altar, reaffirming their commitment to the truth and integrity of the investigation. This was a crucial step, ensuring that all gathered testimonies and evidence were authentic and respectfully handled.
This was followed by the reading of the crosier instrument which symbolises the authority and guidance of the church throughout this investigative process. The ceremony culminated with Cardinal Oswald sealing the envelopes containing all collected documents. These documents will now be sent to Rome, where the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints - the dicastery of the Roman Curia that oversees the complex process that leads to the canonization of saints - will commence their investigation. This next phase will involve a thorough examination of the gathered materials.
The closing of the diocesan phase marks a significant step forward in this sacred journey. The Church in the Archdiocese of Bombay, now looks toward Rome with hope and anticipation for the eventual recognition of Msgr. George Fernandes's holiness and his contributions to the faith.