PANJIM: Goa will burst into exaltations at Midnight, to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, over two thousand years ago. With just a few hours remaining for Christmas, festive preparations are in full swing across Goa. Streets are aglow with colorful decorations, exuding a celebratory spirit. Midnight mass will be held in most of the churches and chapels to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.
The vibrant spirit of Christmas has enveloped Goa as the festival preparations reach their peak. Streets are adorned with colorful stars, twinkling lights, and beautifully designed cribs, while churches prepare for peaceful midnight masses that bring communities together.
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Archbishop Filip Neri Cardinal Ferrao in his message described Christmas as a journey of hope. On the business front, this year, businesses have reported a sharp decline in footfall, with customer numbers dropping by half compared to previous years, leaving many shop owners concerned.
In his Christmas message, Archbishop Filip Neri Cardinal Ferrao said, “Christmas reminds us of the hope that Jesus’ coming brings to the world. I would like to connect the mystery of Christmas to the beautiful jubilee message of Pope Francis for the year 2025 viz. Pilgrims of Hope. Christmas is the story of a journey. The Holy pilgrimage which Joseph and Mary undertook as they travelled to Bethlehem. It was a journey of trust, obedience and hope. Despite the troubles the faced, their hearts remained steadfast in God’s promise. IN the humble stable the word became flesh and the hope of humanity was born in that tiny babe in that manger. Like Mary and Joseph, we too are called to be pilgrims of hope.”
In Old Goa, at the Bom Jesus Basilica, the Christmas Vigil Mass will be at 11.30pm. Don Bosco Panjim and Our Lady of Immaculate Conception Church will also celebrated Christmas Vigil Mass at 11.30am. On 25th December, Masses on the 35th Day of the exposition of the holy relics of St Francis Xavier, at Bom Jesus Basilica will be at 6 am, 7.15am, 8.30am, 9.45 am, 11am. The afternoon masses will be at 3.30pm and 5pm. The 6.15pm mass will be in English.
Despite the festive cheer, businesses across the state are grappling with significant challenges this year. Merchants and vendors, both large and small, have expressed concerns about reduced customer activity. Many blame a general economic slowdown, resulting in lower sales and shortages as fewer people shop for the season.
