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About Feast of St Francis Xavier

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About Feast of St Francis Xavier

The Feast of St Francis Xavier is kept on 3 December, the day the saint died in 1552. In Goa, where he is lovingly called Goencho Saib, the Lord of Goa, it is the biggest feast of the year.

Francis Xavier came to Goa in 1542 and travelled along the coast of India and on to the Far East. His body rests in a silver casket at the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa. Every ten years the relics are brought out for an exposition that draws pilgrims from across the world.

Nine days of prayer, the novena, lead up to the feast. On the day, a large open-air Mass is held at Old Goa, and many pilgrims walk there from their villages before dawn. A fair grows around the churches, with stalls of Goan sweets, candles and gifts.

The feast is also kept in churches named after the saint in other parts of India, such as the old church at Kottar in Kanyakumari.

How people celebrate Feast of St Francis Xavier

  • Nine days of novena prayers
  • Feast Mass at the Basilica of Bom Jesus
  • Walking pilgrimage to Old Goa
  • Lighting candles before the saint
  • The feast fair with Goan sweets
  • Exposition of the relics every ten years

How to wish well

  • Keep wishes calm and prayerful; this is a holy feast for many.
  • A wish for blessings, peace and good health suits everyone.
  • Goencho Saib, the Lord of Goa, is how many Goans speak of the saint with love.
  • Pilgrims come from every faith, so a warm wish to a Goan friend is always welcome.

Questions about Feast of St Francis Xavier

When is the Feast of St Francis Xavier?

On 3 December every year. Nine days of novena prayers come before it.

Where is St Francis Xavier's body kept?

In a silver casket at the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa.

Why is St Francis Xavier called Goencho Saib?

Goencho Saib means the Lord of Goa in Konkani. Goans call him so out of deep love and respect.

What is the exposition of the relics?

Every ten years the saint's relics are brought out for public veneration for some weeks, and pilgrims come from across the world.

Is 3 December a holiday in Goa?

Yes, the Feast of St Francis Xavier is a public holiday in Goa.

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