Know all about day 1 of the St Francis Xavier Exposition in Goa

EXPOSITION 2024

The once-in-a-decade Exposition of the Sacred Relics of St Francis Xavier, which draws thousands of devotees and visitors to Goa, is just two days away. With final preparations underway, here’s what to expect on day one.

WHERE, WHEN

The solemn occasion begins on Thursday, November 21, 2024 and will be held in Old Goa.

HOLY MASS

The Eucharistic celebration, which is open to the public, will be held at 9.30 am. The Archbishop of Delhi, Anil Joseph Thomas Couto, will be the main celebrant.

CEREMONIAL PROCESSION

Following the Mass, a solemn procession will take place, during which the sacred relics of St Francis Xavier will be carried from the Basilica of Bom Jesus to Se Cathedral, both of which are in Old Goa.

ELECTRIC VEHICLE

In a break from tradition, for the first time, the holy relics will be transported in an electric vehicle resembling the saint's mausoleum, rather than being carried on the shoulders of bearers as is customary.

RARE OPPORTUNITY

While the procession itself will be restricted to select individuals, the exposition is a rare opportunity for the public to view the saint's relics up close.

PUBLIC VENERATION

On the first day, public veneration is expected to take place from 3 pm to 6 pm (subject to time). From the next day onwards, until January 4, 2025, daily veneration will be held from 7 am to 6 pm.

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