The 18th Exposition of the Sacred Relics of St Francis Xavier has brought throngs of devotees from all over the world to Goa.
While venerating the beloved saint and attending eucharistic celebrations is part of the itinerary, these devotees also look to take back a memento or two of this blessed occasion for themselves and family and friends who could not make it to the event.
INCOME FOR THE CHURCH
Within the periphery of the Basilica of Bom Jesus at Old Goa, two distinctive stalls have been set up and sell various religious articles and other knick-knacks that would constitute souvenirs.
These stalls are frequented by tourists and devotees who buy souvenirs for themselves or their loved ones back home.
According to a church source, a part of the proceeds from the sales is used for the upkeep of the basilica. “There are lots of expenses involved in the maintenance of the churches, and we consider the purchase of these articles as a donation. This truly helps us,” says the source.
One of the most purchased items in the stores and stalls at Old Goa are statues of St Francis Xavier, which are available in various sizes and designs.
WHAT TO BUY THEM
One of the most purchased items in the stores and stalls at Old Goa are statues of St Francis Xavier, which are available in various sizes and designs.
Among the other religious items, you'll find rosaries, statues of Mother Mary, sleeping St Joseph, angels and Nativity sets. Additionally, there are also religious books, diaries, and books for children such as one on the lives of saints.
Another religious article that tops everyone’s list is a statue of St Joseph Vaz. Why? Because he is the first saint from the State of Goa, and was recently canonised.
My husband has picked up a few articles which I will be giving my family and a few friends as a souvenir of our pilgrimage to Goa for the 18th expositionDiana MK, devotee from Chennai
MEMORIES TO SHARE
With over 3 lakh devotees having already visited Goa since the inaugural mass of the exposition (on November 21, 2024), numerous religious articles have been already purchased by visitors. Among them is Diana MK from Chennai, who got herself a few rosaries and a miniature statue of St Francis Xavier.
“My husband has picked up a few articles which I will be giving my family and a few friends as a souvenir of our pilgrimage to Goa for the 18th exposition,” says Diana who travelled to Goa along with a group of 60 people and their parish priest.
From the church premises, Mariam Luis, an Indian based in Australia, picked up a few small statues and books on St Francis Xavier.
“I have a lot of faith and devotion for this saint, and I decided to buy a lot of statues and holy articles for my family. Although we get these things elsewhere, picking them up from this site makes a difference. I got a few story books for my grandkids, too,” says Mariam.
And, what better present could you gift your family at the inauguration of their new home?
A statue of Our Lady would be perfect. And, that is why a devotee from Tamil Nadu bought one from Old Goa.
“My son has built a new house, and I thought it would be a perfect gift for the inauguration of his house. It will also be a great symbol of devotion that I got from the exposition venue,” he says.
So, if you're looking to purchase some religious items as a remembrance of your visit to the exposition, there are several outlets around Goa from where you can purchase these items during the 18th exposition as well as all year round.
PLACES TO BUY RELIGIOUS ARTICLES
• Institute of Good Literature (Basilica of Bom Jesus Complex), Old Goa
• St Paul’s (Pauline Book & Media Centre), Panjim: 0832 2420361
• Divine Creations, Panjim: +91 98191 19898
• Joseph & Co, Mapusa: +91 75884 45175
• St Peter’s Gallery, Calangute: +91 94238 83190