The annual feast of the patroness at the Immaculate Conception Church in Panjim is on the horizon, scheduled for December 8. The novenas, which commenced on November 28, pave the way for this much-anticipated celebration.
Scheduled masses during the novena and feast days span until December 7, 2023. The daily novena masses are set at 7 am in Konkani, 8 am in English, and 6 pm in Konkani (zone-wise). Moreover, a rosary will be recited daily at 7.30 am in English and 5.30 pm in Konkani.
On December 8, the feast day kicks off with masses at 5:30 am in Konkani, followed by subsequent services at 6.30 am (Konkani), 7.30 am (Konkani), and 8.30 am (English). The day’s pinnacle arrives with the high mass at 10 am, followed by additional services at 12:30 pm (Konkani) and 5 pm (Konkani).
The celebration of the feast is marked by immense fervour and devotion among the people. The historical narrative of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception traces back to the initial construction of a chapel in 1541, intended for sailors to express their gratitude for a safe journey before proceeding to Old Goa or Velha Goa. This chapel was reconstructed in 1619, evolving into a church.
