Know the heritage of Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Utorda, South Goa

Iris Gomes

ECLECTIC ARCHITECTURE

The architecture of the Our Lady of Lourdes Church, in Utorda, South Goa, has an 'eclectic style with Mannerist touches', according to Jose Lourenco in his book, The Parish Churches of Goa.

Goa churches|Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Utorda|Church history|Beacon of faith | Photo: Iris Gomes

JOURNEY OF FAITH

This church was once a chapel, built in 1892. It was elevated to being an affiliate of the parish of Majorda on October 30, 1894.

Goa churches|Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Utorda|Church history|Beacon of faith | Photo: Raul Patil (Google photos)

FROM CHAPEL TO PARISH CHURCH

In 1976, the church separated from the Majorda parish and was made an indepedent parish. As the Catholic population increased, the church was enlarged in 1991 to accommodate the faithful.

Goa churches|Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Utorda|Church history|Beacon of faith | Photo: Pooja Nayak (Google photos)

OUR LADY'S GROTTO

The church is dedicated Our Lady of Lourdes. This grotto outside the church depicts the apparition of Our Lady to St Bernadette of Soubirous.

Goa churches|Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Utorda|Church history|Beacon of faith|Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes | Photo: Iris Gomes

REMINDER OF THE PAST

This pre-Portuguese marble plaque records the names of donors and their respective donations.

Goa churches|Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Utorda|Church history|Beacon of faith|Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes|Marble plaque | Photo: Iris Gomes

ROOM OF PEACE

This doorway leads to the prayer room where the Blessed Sacrament is exposed. The faithful visit throughout the day to say prayers or just spend some time in peace.

Goa churches|Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Utorda|Church history|Beacon of faith|Prayer room | Photo: Iris Gomes

CLOSE-KNIT COMMUNITY

With a vibrant and involved Catholic community, the feast of the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes, in Utorda, is celebrated on November 14 with much devotion and fanfare.

Goa churches|Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Utorda|Church history|Beacon of faith|Christ the King | Photo: Iris Gomes

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