Mumbai: The much-awaited Feast of St Francis Xavier in Old Goa is set to welcome thousands of devotees tomorrow, December 3. Following nine days of novenas, this grand celebration in honour of Goa’s cherished patron saint will coincide with the special decennial Exposition of the saint’s relics, adding to the spiritual fervour.
Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, the pro-prefect for the Dicastery for Evangelization from Rome, arrived in Goa on Sunday and will preside over the solemn High Mass. Archbishop Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrao, along with other Bishops and priests, will also join Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle in celebrating the Holy Eucharist.
Scheduled at 10:30 am, the Mass will be conducted in English and is expected to draw worshippers from Goa, India, and around the globe.
St Francis Xavier Feast Mass
The day’s liturgical schedule begins with Masses starting at 3:45 am., continuing throughout the day at intervals of 5 am, 6 am, 7:15 am, 8:30 am, 12:15 pm, 3:30 pm, 4 pm, 5 pm, and concluding with a service at 6:15 pm. Masses will be held in various languages to accommodate the diverse crowd of devotees.
Known as the ‘Goencho Saib,’ the Feast of St Francis Xavier holds profound spiritual importance for Goans and Catholics worldwide. This year’s event is made even more meaningful by the Exposition of the saint’s relics, a tradition that takes place every ten years. The veneration of the relics will be open to the public from 5 am until 6 pm, allowing uninterrupted worship.
Extensive preparations have been undertaken by authorities and church officials to ensure a seamless experience for the large number of pilgrims expected to visit Old Goa.
Old Goa Feast Mass Timings 2024
Date: December 3
High Mass: 10:30 am (English), led by Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle
Mass Schedule: Starting at 3:45 am with services at regular intervals throughout the day.
Relic Veneration: 5 am to 6 pm
About St Francis Xavier
St Francis Xavier, hailing from the royal family of Navarre, Spain, was educated at the University of Paris and later ordained as a priest in Venice. His spiritual transformation was inspired by the words of Jesus, “What does it profit a man if he gains the whole world but loses his soul,” as shared with him by St Ignatius of Loyola. Together, they co-founded the Jesuit order.
Xavier embarked on his mission to India under a Papal mandate granted by King John III of Portugal. He arrived in Goa via Mozambique on May 6, 1542, marking the beginning of his remarkable journey 482 years ago.
While en route to China, Xavier fell ill on Sancian Island and passed away on December 2, 1552. His body was later brought to Goa on December 11, 1553. St Francis Xavier was canonized on March 12, 1622.
The first Exposition of St. Francis Xavier’s relics in Goa took place in 1782, spanning three days from February 10 to 12. This event was organised to counter rumours that the Jesuits had removed the saint’s body, leaving behind an empty casket. Following Goa’s liberation in 1961, the tradition of holding Expositions every decade began in 1964.
This year marks the 18th Exposition of the relics of St Francis Xavier, a revered saint of the Catholic Church and the protector of Goa, affectionately known as Goencho Saib by the people.
The Feast of St Francis Xavier is not just a religious celebration but a time for communities to come together in faith and unity. The decennial Exposition adds a unique dimension to the festivities, offering devotees the chance to venerate the saint’s relics and reflect on his extraordinary contributions to Christianity and humanity.
As Old Goa transforms into a hub of spiritual devotion, the Feast serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of St Francis Xavier, inspiring generations with his dedication, compassion, and unwavering faith.
Sfx Feast Mass: The Feast of St Francis Xavier, Goa’s beloved Goencho Saib, is set to be celebrated on December 3 in Old Goa. This year’s festivities coincide with the decennial Exposition of the saint’s relics, drawing devotees from across the globe. Learn about the Mass timings, veneration schedule, and highlights of this spiritually significant event. Spirituality Lifestyle News -Fashion Trends, Beauty Tips, Celebrity Party News, Relationship advice, Travel and Food Tips
