The 18th exposition of the holy relics of St. Francis Xavier has attracted devotees and visitors from across the globe, turning Old Goa into a vibrant hub of faith and festivity. Celebrated with grandeur on December 3rd, the feast combined spiritual devotion with cultural celebration, as masses, processions, and a lively fair delighted attendees.
Masses began at 3:45 AM, drawing worshippers eager to honor the saint known as Goa’s patron and protector. Long veneration queues formed early, stretching toward Gandhi Circle by mid-morning, as devotees embraced the experience as a spiritual pilgrimage.
If you enjoyed reading this article, you can help support our journalism by adding OHeraldo as a preferred source.
Goans, wherever they are, have an attachment to St. Francis Xavier. We believe he protects and guides us.
Inacio, a devotee
The fairgrounds buzzed with energy, featuring diverse stalls offering food, jewelry, and traditional wares. Hindu vendors sold Goan specialties like Khaje and jalebis, while Catholic vendors served the iconic Choris Pao. Feast staples like Channe (roasted grams and salted peanuts) further added to the festive spirit.
Leann Odelia A Mesquita from Margão described the event as a profound and joyful experience: “The mass was moving, the procession incredible, and the brass band amazing. The fair, with Choris Pao and all, made it even better!”
Many families, like one from Switzerland, cherished the opportunity to unite in faith and festivity. “St. Francis Xavier is like a godfather to me,” shared a devotee. “Attending the mass, veneration, and fair with loved ones made it a memorable occasion.”
The feast stands as a testament to the enduring influence of St. Francis Xavier and the communal spirit of Goa, seamlessly blending the sacred and the celebratory.
