Exposition of St. Francis Xavier’s Relics Begins in Goa: A Journey of Faith and Devotion”

Exposition of St. Francis Xavier’s Relics Begins in Goa: A Journey of Faith and Devotion”
Panaji: Goa’s top leaders gathered to seek blessings for the state’s prosperity at the exposition of Saint Francis Xavier’s sacred relics, a significant event occurring once every decade. Governor Shri P.S. Sreedharan Pillai, accompanied by First Lady Smt. Rita S. Pillai, Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, Transport Minister Shri Mauvin Godinho, Secretary Revenue & Commissioner Exposition Shri. Sandip Jacques, IAS, and Collector North, Dr. Sneha Gitte, IAS, attended the event.
The Exposition commenced with Holy Eucharist at Bom Jesus Basilica at 9:30 a.m., led by Archbishop of Delhi Most Reverend Anil Couto as the main celebrant. Bishop of Daltonganj Theodore Mascarenhas, Bishop Emeritus Alex Dias, Bishop of Port Blair Selvaraj, and Archbishop Filip Neri Cardinal Ferrao, along with the Superior General of the Pilar Fathers and the Jesuit Provincial, concelebrated the Mass alongside 400-500 priests.
“Saint Francis Xavier, the patron of missionaries and one of the founding members of the Jesuit Order, embodies the values of dedication, compassion, and selfless service. His relics serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of spreading the Gospel and caring for the marginalized. As we venerate his sacred relics, let us draw inspiration from his extraordinary life and commitment to faith, and may his intercession guide us on our own spiritual journeys.” Said Anil Couto
This decennial exposition, from November 21, 2024, to January 5, 2025, is a momentous occasion for the faithful to venerate the relics of “Goycho Saib.” The event features a solemn Holy Eucharist at 9:30 a.m., followed by a procession carrying the relics from the Basilica to the Cathedral. The relics will be available for daily veneration from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., with eight Masses celebrated daily, including one in English.
The Exposition Schedule is as follows:
Solemn Opening is on November 21, 2024, at 9:30 a.m.
Veneration will take place daily from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Eight Masses will be celebrated daily, including one in English.
The Solemn Closing will be held on January 5, 2025, at 9:30 a.m.
Several church institutions in Old Goa are offering accommodation for pilgrims during the exposition, including St. Joseph Vaz Spiritual Renewal Centre, Pastoral Institute St. Pius X, and See Cathedral.