Colva, a small but spiritually vibrant village in Goa, is home to a remarkable religious event known as the ‘Fama De Menino Jesus.’ This event is a source of immense blessings for the local community and pilgrims who come from far and wide. Devotees gather to celebrate this special occasion, seeking good health, prosperity, and happiness through their deep devotion to Menino Jesus. The story of Menino Jesus and the ‘Fama’ is a captivating narrative of faith, miracles, and community spirit.
The heart of this religious fervour is the Church dedicated to Nossa Senhora das Merces, or the Our Lady of Merces. Originally built as a chapel by the Jesuits in 1630 AD, it was elevated to the status of a church on May 28, 1635, alongside the churches of Seraulim and Betalbatim.
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Legend has it that during the early Portuguese rule, a group of fishermen at sea witnessed a remarkable sight—a swarm of seagulls circling a small islet that extended into the sea. Curious and concerned, they approached the islet, only to discover a dazzling, sunlit object. It turned out to be a beautifully carved wooden idol of a baby with a ring on its finger – the Menino Jesus. Overwhelmed and possibly frightened, they handed this precious find to the Jesuit priests of the Colva church. This marked the beginning of the veneration of Menino Jesus, and news of miraculous cures and benevolence soon spread, drawing crowds from all corners of the land.
According to historical accounts, a Jesuit Priest named Fr. Benito Fereirra SJ found the statue off the coast of Mozambique and brought it to the Church of Our Lady of Merces in Colva, where he was stationed. The idol was placed on the church’s altar, becoming a focal point of devotion and veneration.
Sadly, the celebration of the Menino Jesus came to a halt when the Jesuit Order was transferred to the Rachol Seminary, taking the idol with them. Emotionally attached to this deity, the villagers fervently requested the return of the idol. However, their plea was rejected. The villagers returned disheartened but soon discovered that the ring on Menino Jesus’s finger had miraculously reappeared in the church’s altar niche. Joyfully, they crafted a new idol, placed the ring on its finger, and resumed their veneration.
The devotion and tradition continue to thrive in Colva. The Fama De Menino Jesus will be celebrated on Monday, October 16, 2023, with the Feast on Thursday, October 26, 2023. The day will begin with a high mass at 5:30 a.m., followed by a solemn procession led by Rev. Fr. Simpliciano Fernandes, Parish Priest of Colva Church. Devotees are encouraged to maintain order and buy authentic Infant Jesus Cords and Holy Pictures from the Confraria counter.
This year, children below 3 years of age will be allowed to be placed on the altar during FAMA DAY. Additionally, the sick door will remain open from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., with a limit of two accompanying members per sick person. Multiple masses will be held in the church compound throughout the day.
Leading up to the Feast Day, Novena Masses will be conducted daily, featuring inspirational homilies. On Feast Day, October 26, 2023, special masses will be held at 5:45 a.m., and 7:15 a.m., and a High Mass at 9:00 a.m., with Rev. Fr. Alexio Menezes as the main celebrant.
The Fama De Menino Jesus is not merely a religious event but a testament to unwavering faith and community unity. It brings together devotees and pilgrims in the spirit of veneration, reflection, and gratitude. This year’s celebration promises to be a truly memorable and spiritually enriching experience for all.
