Season of Creation 2026
St. Anne's Parish - A Season of Creation Parish
Season of Creation 2026
An Honour and a Call to Mission
St. Anne’s Parish, Ponda, has been officially recognised as the Diocesan Commission for Ecology Season of Creation 2026 Parish for the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman. This recognition acknowledges the sincere efforts of the parish community in embracing the Church’s invitation to care for our common home.
This distinction is not merely an honour or a title. It is a call to mission and a responsibility entrusted to the entire parish community. It invites families, youth, Small Christian Communities and parish institutions to bring together faith, prayer, ecological awareness and meaningful action.
During the 8th Centenary of the Transitus of St. Francis of Assisi, this special responsibility encourages us to rediscover the Franciscan values of simplicity, peace, fraternity, compassion and care for all creation.
Theme for 2026
Living Waters
Inspired by Ezekiel 47:1-12, the theme ‘Living Waters’ invites us to reflect on the life-giving presence of God flowing into our world – renewing people, communities and the whole of creation.
Just as water sustains, cleanses and restores life, we are called to become channels of renewal and hope within our homes, neighbourhoods and environment. The theme reminds us that water is a precious gift from God and calls us to use it responsibly, protect it and ensure it continues to sustain life for future generations.
Living Our Faith Through Care for Creation
Prayer and Spiritual Renewal
Recognise creation as God's gift and allow prayer to inspire gratitude, responsibility and action.
Responsible and Simple Living
Use water and natural resources wisely, reduce waste and embrace a simpler and more mindful way of life.
Community Participation
Bring together families, youth, Small Christian Communities and parish institutions in caring for our common home.
Compassion and Service
Care for the poor and vulnerable while protecting the environment and sharing God's gifts responsibly.
Reflection
"May our faith flow like living water - renewing hearts, strengthening communities and bringing hope to all creation."
Season of Creation 2026
Season of Creation 2026 Highlights
1 September 2026
Opening of the Season of Creation
• Solemn opening ceremony with special liturgy and blessing of water
• Marks the start of a month-long journey of ecological reflection and action
• Theme: ‘Living Waters – Everything will live where the river flows’
• Community gathers to commit to caring for God’s creation
13 September 2026
Franciscan Green Families Day
• Workshops on kitchen gardening, composting and water conservation
• Eco-friendly household practices for sustainable living
• Families invited to take a Green Pledge for responsible stewardship
19 September 2026
International Coastal Cleanup Day
• Community cleanup along Goa’s coastline
• Raises awareness about marine pollution and plastic waste
• A visible expression of faith in action and care for creation
20 September 2026
Franciscan Ecology Awareness Sunday
• Themed homily and parish-wide prayer intentions for the environment
• Educational displays on ecological responsibility
• Parishioners reflect and commit to meaningful ecological action
27 September 2026
World Rivers Day
• Awareness talks on river conservation
• Community walks along local waterways
• Prayer services giving thanks for the gift of water
• Highlights the ‘Living Waters’ theme
25 September – 3 October 2026
Franciscan Centenary Novenas
• Nine days of focused prayer and spiritual preparation
• Each day features a specific Franciscan theme
• Themes: simplicity, peace, fraternity, humility, prayer, care for creation, love for the Gospel
• Deepens the community’s spiritual connection to St. Francis
4 October 2026
Feast of St. Francis of Assisi – Grand Finale
• Solemn Eucharistic celebration and blessing of animals
• Community fellowship gathering and cultural programme
• Thanksgiving for the completion of the Jubilee journey
• The entire parish honours St. Francis together
