St Francis Xavier spent most of his time at this chapel in Goa

Venita Gomes

CHAPEL OF CONSEQUENCE

The Chapel of St Francis Xavier, often overshadowed by its more famous neighbours like the Basilica of Bom Jesus, holds historical significance as the place much frequented by the saint when in Goa.

Feast of St Francis Xavier| 18th Exposition of the Sacred Relics | Chapel of St Francis Xavier in Old Goa| Mass & Celebration in Goa | Photo: Rohan Fernandes

WHEN IN GOA...

The chapel is located inside the site of St Paul's College, of which only the façade remains today. It is believed that St Francis Xavier spent hours here in deep devotion.

Feast of St Francis Xavier| 18th Exposition of the Sacred Relics | Chapel of St Francis Xavier in Old Goa| Mass & Celebration in Goa | Photo: Rohan Fernandes

LATIN MASS CELEBRATED

Today, on the feast day (December 3, 2024) of St Francis Xavier, a Mass was celebrated in Latin in honour of the saint, recognising his tremendous missionary contributions.

Feast of St Francis Xavier| 18th Exposition of the Sacred Relics | Chapel of St Francis Xavier in Old Goa| Mass & Celebration in Goa

MASSES OFFERED

As part of the 18th exposition of the sacred relics of St Francis Xavier, 59 Masses have been offered so far at the chapel.

Feast of St Francis Xavier| 18th Exposition of the Sacred Relics | Chapel of St Francis Xavier in Old Goa| Mass & Celebration in Goa

AROUND THE WORLD

These Masses were celebrated by bishops and priests from across the globe, including Brazil, the Czech Republic, Portugal, France, South Africa and Russia, besides various other countries.

Feast of St Francis Xavier| 18th Exposition of the Sacred Relics | Chapel of St Francis Xavier in Old Goa| Mass & Celebration in Goa

FROM All OVER INDIA

Laity from various dioceses of India were in attendance. The Masses were held in multiple languages, such as Tamil, Telugu, Marathi, Hindi, Kannada, Mangalorean Konkani, Gujarati and so on.

Feast of St Francis Xavier| 18th Exposition of the Sacred Relics | Chapel of St Francis Xavier in Old Goa| Mass & Celebration in Goa

SEEKING A CURE

The water from a well near the chapel, which St Francis Xavier used, is deemed to be able to cure people. Pilgrims, especially ones with incurable ailments, drink the water in the hope of being healed.

Feast of St Francis Xavier| 18th Exposition of the Sacred Relics | Chapel of St Francis Xavier in Old Goa| Mass & Celebration in Goa | Photo: Rohan Fernandes

6TH OF EVERY MONTH

St Francis Xavier is said to landed in Goa on December 6th. Therefore, on the 6th of every month, at 10 am, pilgrims, especially those seeking healing, gather at the chapel.

Feast of St Francis Xavier| 18th Exposition of the Sacred Relics | Chapel of St Francis Xavier in Old Goa| Mass & Celebration in Goa

NEXT: Escape to green Goa, the perfect destination for every rider

SEE MORE