OLD GOA: A labour of love spread over two years and an inspirational book, “Man of Miracles - St Francis Xavier” was released on the eve of the XVIII Exposition of the relics of St Francis Xavier. The book authored by Patrick J Lobo was released by Fr Henry Falcao, Convenor of the Exposition Committee at the St John of Goa Church Old Goa, on November 20.
The well researched book by Patrick J. Lobo, took over two years to research, collect photos and write. The book starts with the Miraculous conversion of St Ignatius and in turn St Francis Xavier, the call for the mission to India, his arrival in Goa, his miracles, the recovery of the crucifix, his visits to Malacca, his journey to Japan, the miraculous preservation of the Saint’s body and the canonization and miracles after his death.
Speaking on the occasion Fr Henry Falcao disclosed, “St Francis Xavier’s miracles are in hundreds. A few of his miracles are recorded. That’s why the title of the book is Man of Miracles. We can call him a man of miracles, because his life was lived in obedience to God. St Francis Xavier’s simple and humble life tells each one of us that miracles are possible even today.”
Author Patrick J Lobo told the audience, “I started to write this book two years ago. I decided the concept long back, that I am going to write about miracles. In this age of science, believing in miracles has become quite difficult. But through faith everything is possible. So, I decided to document the miracles, events and the prophecies.” He thanked Fr Henry Falcao for writing the Foreword and all his collaborators.
Les Menezes who did the proof reading and refined the manuscript said, “While going through this book I had a resurgence of great faith and belief in St Francis Xavier. St Francis did not direct the miracles himself but suffered ill health, but never asked for a miracle to heal himself.”
The book is available for sale at all the book stall in Old Goa during the Exposition.