Frequently Asked Questions What is CGN, and who can join: What is the composition and number of persons currently subscribed to the List? Are there any expectations from members, like membership fees or dues and can persons unsubscribe, at any time? What can I expect if I decide to join CGN? How does CGN develop a sense of camaraderie, togetherness or belonging? Any planned cultural activities or family events? Do members communicate on a one-on-one basis? Any opportunities for singles, searching for marriage partners? What about Non-Goans or other Catholics who want to join the List? Any other helpful information on CGN? What is CGN, and who can join: A: Catholic Goan Network (CGN) is a group of Goans who are committed to the Catholic faith and their Goan heritage. It was first launched August 15, 2000, and is a closed list . Persons interested in joining the CGN List should complete the simple New Member Registration Form in the REGISTER/JOIN US. Please enter ALL required information. Questions may be directed to: i) Patrick de Sousa, Maryland, USA pdesousa3@cs.com ii) Ivy D'Costa, Florida, USA idc954@yahoo.com iii) Fr. Francisco Alves, S. J., Wash. DC alfranc_4@yahoo.com What is the composition and number of persons currently subscribed to the List? A: Presently there are over one hundred fifty members (including some spouses) dispersed in more than 20 countries across the globe. We also have priests, religious sisters and a Spiritual Advisor for guidance. Are there any expectations from members, like membership fees or dues and can persons unsubscribe, at any time? A: CGN's Goals and Objectives is sent to all prospective members. There are no expectations. Active participation helps foster a spirit of camaraderie and free discourse. There are no fees or dues, and members are unsubscribed upon request. What can I expect if I decide to join CGN? A: You will be treated with courtesy and respect -- no unruly or offensive behaviour and members are free to express their opinions as long as they do not contravene the basic teachings and tenets of the Roman Catholic Church. We try to stay out of politics, in general. However, we do stand up for our faith and for all we believe in. Expressed another way, "We Stand for our Flag, But Kneel at the Cross." How does CGN develop a sense of camaraderie, togetherness or belonging? A: CGN maintains a Celebrations List where birthdays, childrens' confirmation, marriages, ordinations or profession of final vows, and other special events are publicized and recognized. Prayers may also be requested in time of need, such as in sickness or desired miracle; and inevitable death. We try to focus on the family, friends and relatives. Members thus find many bonding opportunities. Any planned cultural activities or family events? A: The second or third weekend in August, closest to August 15, the Feast of the Assumption, has been the primary source for socializing. With the launching of CGN's website on January 13, 2002, the Baptism of The Lord and just before the Feast of Goa's own first aspiring saint, Blessed Fr. Joseph Vaz, this could be another biannual event. This website <www.catholic.goan.network.net> with only an announcement home page, was in place on December 2, 01, in honour of St. Francis Xavier, Goa's renowned saint, whose Feast-Day is celebrated worldwide. Do members communicate on a one-on-one basis? A: Yes, many form their own small or inner circles and maintain long lasting and enduring relationships. This can be easily gauged through the tone of e-mails, frequent use of smileys, or requests for specificinformation. Generally it is advisable to respond to the List. Some people are too busy and/or do not have much time. Any opportunities for singles, searching for marriage partners? A: "Catholics In Search Of" project was only recently started and has a very limited data base. Its aim is to provide a forum for single Catholics who are looking for marriage partners. Contact: Clare and Pat de Sousa desousa246@aol.com What about Non-Goans or other Catholics who want to join the List? A: A majority of the members are Goans or persons with a Goan origin. However, other interested Catholics can join as support member. Any other helpful information on CGN? A: A CGN sub-list exists for a few who prefer only original or very limited postings. This list has, however, been rather dormant, but the interest could perk up any time. As in any FAQ, there may be questions which have not been answered. Please direct specific questions to: Clare or Patrick de Sousa pdesousa3@cs.com