Goa is renowned for its rich cultural tapestry, deeply influenced by its history as a Portuguese colony. A significant portion of the Goan population practices Christianity, a legacy of Portuguese rule that has shaped the region's traditions and festivities. Among the many vibrant celebrations, the Feast of St. Francis Xavier stands out as a grand annual event held every December. This festival exudes a distinct European charm, reflecting Goa’s colonial past.
The Feast of St. Francis Xavier is both a spiritual and cultural occasion, dedicated to honoring the revered Patron Saint of Goa, St. Francis Xavier. The event is centered around the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Old Goa, where the saint's relics are preserved in a silver casket. Pilgrims from across India and beyond gather here to pay their respects, attend mass, and partake in the festivities.
History Significance of the Feast of St. Francis Xavier
St. Francis Xavier was born in 1506 in the Kingdom of Navarre, present-day Spain, and became one of the founding members of the Jesuit order. He arrived in Goa in 1542 as a missionary accompanying the Portuguese Viceroy. Known for his unwavering dedication to spreading Christianity, he left a profound impact on Goan society.
After his death on December 2, 1552, his mortal remains were miraculously preserved and placed in a casket, which was interred at the Basilica of Bom Jesus on December 3. The day of his enshrinement is now celebrated as the Feast of St. Francis Xavier, marked by grand processions, hymns, and prayers. It is a testament to the enduring faith and devotion of the Goan Christian community.
For the unversed, Francis Xavier is also known as ‘GoenchoSaib’ which means, The Lord of Goa.
Major Attractions of Feast of St. Francis Xavier Goa
1. Novena. It is a period of 9 days wherein prayers take place in the church in honour of Saint Francis Xavier. After 9 days of prayers, many ceremonies are hosted which is participated by the locals and devotees from across the globe. Many customs are followed by the pilgrims too, who get together on the Feast day. All in all, this is a major occasion for Christians and is worth attending.
2. The Feast. On the day of the feast, Saint Francis is offered flowers, and candles by the devotees. The prayers are followed by a feast wherein people are served food and drinks. Food, clothing, and accessory stalls are also a part of the festival. People often spend their time shopping at these stalls, eating and engaging with fellow devotees and friends.
How to Reach to St. Francis Xavier Goa
Goa is a dream vacation destination for many people in the country courtesy its exotic beaches, picturesque locations, and great ambiance. The state has beaches, churches, cafes, greenery and positive vibes in abundance and it’s really hard to resist all that!
Owing to well developed and well-connected roadways, airways and railways network you can reach Goa through various modes and routes. From Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru, Goa is approximately 1,900, 580, 2,100, and 580 km away respectively. Below mentioned are a few best travel options to reach Goa.
By Road. If you are planning a road trip to Goa's Basilica of Bom Jesus Church by road then you have to cover nearly:
- 270km via NH 66 from Ratnagiri
- 216km via NH 48 from Kolhapur
- 150km via SH 34 and NH 748 from Hubli
- 450km via AH 47 and NH 48 from Pune
- 400km NH 48 from Mahabaleshwar
Another comfortable and economical option is to travel via inter-state tourist buses that run between different states and can be booked online as well.
By Rail. To reach the capital city of Goa, which is Panaji, Madgaon is the nearest railway station located at a distance of about 35km from the city. People can easily find a taxi or a bus from the station which will take them to the city of Panaji or Panjim.
Here are the trains you need to take from different Indian cities:
- Delhi - Goa Express
- Mumbai - Mangalore Express, Konkan Kanya Express, or Dadar Ten Express
- Pune - Goa Express
- Ratnagiri - Mandovi Express
- Kolkata - Amravathi Express
By Air. Dabolim Airport or Goa International Airport is the nearest airport to reach Basilica of Bom Jesus. From the airport, one is required to take a taxi or a bus to travel an additional 30km to reach the church.
Almost all the major airlines such as Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, Vistara, GoAir, and AirAsia run non-stop flights to Goa from all the metro cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru. Due to regular and fairly frequent flight connectivity, you may consider traveling by air if time is a constraint and comfort is your priority.
You can plan your trip and create your own route to the city with Adotrip’s technically driven Trip planner.
Frequently Asked Questions about Feast of St. Francis Xavier
Q1. What is the Feast of St. Francis Xavier?
A1. The Feast of St. Francis Xavier is an annual religious and cultural celebration held in Goa every December. It honors St. Francis Xavier, the Patron Saint of Goa, whose relics are preserved in the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa.
Q2. When is the Feast of St. Francis Xavier celebrated?
A2. The feast is celebrated on December 3rd each year to commemorate the day St. Francis Xavier’s relics were placed in the Basilica of Bom Jesus in 1552.
Q3. Where does the Feast of St. Francis Xavier take place?
A3. The main celebration occurs at the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa, where the saint’s silver casket is kept. The church is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major pilgrimage destination.
Q4. Why is St. Francis Xavier significant in Goa?
A4. St. Francis Xavier is revered for his missionary work in Goa during the Portuguese colonial era. He played a vital role in spreading Christianity and is considered the Patron Saint of Goa.
Q5. What are the key events during the Feast of St. Francis Xavier?
A5. The feast includes a novena (nine days of prayer) leading up to December 3, a grand mass on the feast day, processions, and various cultural events. Pilgrims also visit the saint’s relics for blessings.
Q6. How do pilgrims participate in the feast?
A6. Pilgrims attend the novena, offer prayers, and partake in the feast day mass. Many also seek blessings by visiting the silver casket containing the saint’s remains.
Q7. Is the Feast of St. Francis Xavier open to people of all faiths?
A7. Yes, the feast is open to everyone, regardless of religion. It is a cultural and spiritual event that attracts people from all walks of life, including tourists.
Q8. What is the significance of the silver casket in the Basilica of Bom Jesus?
A8. The silver casket houses the relics of St. Francis Xavier. It is a focal point of devotion during the feast and is believed to have miraculous powers by many devotees.
Q9. Are there any special rituals associated with the feast?
A9. Yes, the feast includes traditional Catholic rituals such as mass, hymns, and processions. The novena prayers are an integral part of the lead-up to the feast day.
Q10. How can visitors experience the Feast of St. Francis Xavier?
A10. Visitors can attend the masses, witness the processions, explore the historic Basilica of Bom Jesus, and immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere of Old Goa during this time.
