Historic Expansion for Asia's Sole Cathedral Chapter in Goa
In a significant religious ceremony, the Archbishop of Goa and Daman, Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrao, has installed three new canons to the 492-year-old Cathedral chapter. This historic institution, which stands as the only existing Cathedral chapter in all of Asia, has now seen its membership rise to 12 canons for the first time in several decades.
Solemn Ceremony at Se Cathedral
The installation ceremony was conducted with great solemnity at the iconic Se Cathedral in Old Goa on Monday. Three distinguished priests from the archdiocese were elevated to these key positions: Fr Antonio (Tony) F Salema, Fr Walter D’Sa, and Fr Leonardo Pegado e Souza. During the brief but meaningful ceremony, Archbishop Ferrao formally gave the three new canons their mandate to exercise their functions, and he participated in the Eucharistic service that followed.
Canon Rosario Oliveira, who serves as the secretary of the Cathedral chapter, read out the official decree of appointment during the proceedings. This expansion represents a deliberate effort to strengthen and rejuvenate this centuries-old institution that plays a crucial advisory role in both spiritual and administrative matters within the archdiocese.
A Chapter with Deep Historical Roots
The Cathedral chapter's origins trace back to 1534, when it was established by the Apostolic See through the papal bull 'Aequum Reputamus', shortly after Goa became a diocese. At its peak, this chapter boasted an impressive 30 canons. However, over time, the numbers gradually dwindled until only five remained, with just three of those being active participants in recent years.
In a previous effort to revitalize the institution, the Goa archdiocese appointed six additional canons on November 24, 2019. This brought the total strength to 11 members. Unfortunately, during the intervening years, two elderly canons passed away, reducing the active membership once again. With Monday's installation of three new canons, the chapter has now reached a total of 12 members, marking a positive step toward its historical strength.
The Role and Tradition of Cathedral Canons
The canons of the Cathedral chapter serve in an important advisory capacity to the archbishop, providing guidance on both spiritual concerns and administrative decisions. These positions are reserved for senior priests who have demonstrated noteworthy records of service to the church and community.
Beyond their advisory duties, the canons play a prominent role in a unique tradition that dates back approximately 450 years. During the annual Good Friday commemoration at Se Cathedral, they participate in the 'Procession of Tails', known locally as 'Xempddeachem Pursanv'. This event has become so significant that Good Friday is often referred to as the 'Day of Canons' in this context.
Devotees from across the region flock to Old Goa each Good Friday to witness this distinctive procession, where the canons wear flowing gowns with tails as part of the solemn commemoration. This tradition not only honors the historical significance of the Cathedral chapter but also serves as a living connection to centuries of Catholic heritage in Goa.
