Team Herald
PANJIM: St Francis Xavier or Goencho Saib has a special place, not only among Goan Catholics but even other faiths, who venerate him.
This time the Exposition was announced by Archbishop Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrao two years prior mainly for Spiritual preparation. A 15-member committee was constituted to look into the logistics and at the Spiritual Preparation.
"Due to the extended rains, there was a late start to the infrastructure works. It is hoped that the Government will hurry up and complete the works in time. The government is fully cooperating with us," Fr Henry Falcao, Convenor of the Exposition Committee, said.
The Exposition will be a time for spiritual renewal for devotees, families and small Christian communities. We are fully ready as far as spiritual preparation are concerned Fr Falcao said.
Elucidating about the infrastructure works, Fr Falcao said, "As far as the other preparations are concerned from the side of the government, we know the event attracts a lot of tourists and devotees from a number of countries and that is why the government is involved in the preparations, for instance the infrastructure, beautifying the place."
"This year we know because of the rains this year, the work could not start on time. But I hope that the government will also hurry up with the works. And we are hope full that the government will do the work. The preparations are going on well and we hope things will happen on time," Fr Falcao said with a smile of hope.
Pope not invited to visit India: Viriato
PANJIM: South Goa MP Captain Viriato Fernandes on Friday claimed that despite Prime Minister Narendra Modi mentioning about the decennial exposition of St Francis Xavier at Old Goa during his visit to Margao, no diplomatic steps had been taken and no official invitation had been extended to Pope Francis to visit India.
Capt Fernandes said that he had confirmed information in New Delhi that diplomatic protocols for such an invitation had not been followed by
the government.
Though Prime Minister Modi met Pope Francis during the G20 Summit in Italy, there was no formal invitation issued for a visit to India.
“When inviting a Head of State, diplomatic channels must be employed, and the itinerary carefully planned. Unfortunately, that process has not taken place,” said Capt Fernandes.
The Congress MP further emphasised the importance of strengthening ties between India and the Vatican, adding that an official invitation could lead to Pope Francis visiting the country, including Goa, for the exposition of St Francis Xavier stating from November 21 this year.
“Better late than never. If this government has the will, they can still promptly use the diplomatic channels and extend an official invite to the Pope Francis, who is the Head of the Vatican,” he said.