Thousands throng Saint Francis Xavier’s exposition in Goa

The Exposition of the Sacred Relics of Saint Francis Xavier is a grand and spiritually significant event held once every decade in Goa, drawing millions of pilgrims and visitors from around the world. This year marks the 18th exposition, that began on November 21 and will continue until January 5, 2025, at the Sé Catedral in Old Goa.

The Exposition of the Sacred Relics of Saint Francis Xavier is a significant religious event and a long-standing practice for the Christian community, held once every decade in Goa. This year marks the 18^th exposition, that is held at the Sé Catedral in Old Goa and lasts over six weeks.

The historic event commemorates the contributions of Saint Francis Xavier, a Spanish missionary and co-founder of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits), who is renowned for his missionary work across Asia. He is also venerated for his significant role in spreading Christianity, particularly in India. His canonisation in 1622 cemented his legacy as a saint, and the Exposition serves as both a religious and cultural event, offering a unique opportunity to honour his life and continue the spiritual journey he started centuries ago. The event is celebrated as a symbol of faith, devotion, and the enduring impact of Saint Francis Xavier’s missionary spirit.

The seemingly incorruptible, embalmed remains of Saint Francis Xavier are housed in a centuries-old silver casket at the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Goa. Every decade, these sacred relics are brought down for a grand event known as the Exposition, which attracts thousands of pilgrims and devotees from around the world.  The exposition is a time for spiritual reflection, devotion, and celebration.

“It is a very holy experience. Just being among thousands of people sharing the same faith and walking towards the Church with hope and gratitude is a very humbling experience,” Vanessa M F Lopes, a resident of Goa tells India & You.

On the occasion, the remains are taken in a solemn procession to the Sé Catedral for veneration, allowing worshippers to pay their respects to the saint.  The 18^th exposition began with a mass at the Basilica of Bom Jesus, after which the holy relics of Saint Francis Xavier were carried to the Sé Catedral in an electric carriage. The procession was a grand sight with over 1,000 people forming a human chain as the relics were carried across the church complex to Sé Catedral, accompanied by members of the clergy, volunteers and selected representatives of the society.

“During the procession, the atmosphere at the Sé Cathedral has been serene, quiet, reflective, and spiritual. The continual spiritual music played inside the Cathedral enables a visitor and pilgrim to feel that one is in a holy place of worship and nearing to venerate the relics of Saint Francis Xavier. The ambience lifts the soul to thank God and seek graces for oneself,” Father Joseph Cardozo SJ, assistant Provincial of the Goa Jesuit Province, tells India & You.

The last Exposition, the 17^th edition, was held from November 22, 2014, to January 4, 2015, and was a momentous occasion for the hundreds of thousands of believers and tourists who turned up for the exposition.

His canonisation in 1622 cemented his legacy as a saint, and the Exposition serves as both a religious and cultural event, offering a unique opportunity to honour his life and continue the spiritual journey he started centuries ago. The event is celebrated as a symbol of faith, devotion, and the enduring impact of Saint Francis Xavier’s missionary spirit. The last Exposition, the 17^th edition, was held from November 22, 2014, to January 4, 2015, and was a momentous occasion for the hundreds of thousands of believers and tourists who turned up for the exposition.

“The St. Francis Xavier Exposition is not just a religious event but a vibrant celebration of Goa’s heritage. The relic of St. Francis Xavier is presented for public veneration, attracting pilgrims from across the globe. The event draws tourists interested in experiencing Goa’s blend of history, architecture, and spirituality. The church complex at Old Goa serves as the focal point for the event, allowing visitors to admire its architectural grandeur while participating in the spiritual activities,” says an official of Department of Goa Tourism, preferring anonymity.

The event attracts millions of pilgrims from across India and around the world, offering them the opportunity to venerate the relics of Saint Francis Xavier, also known as “Goencho Saib.” This month-long celebration is a testament to the enduring legacy of the saint and a time of deep spiritual reflection for the faithful. According to reports, the church authorities expect over 8 million people to visit Goa during the 45-day long event, surpassing the 5.5 million visitors during the previous exposition in 2014.

“The visitors, pilgrims, tourists, and devotes of St. Francis Xavier come from all walks of life, religions, caste and creed. There have been people who have venerated the relics by making pilgrimages from others States of India. St Francis Xavier is a saint of the Masses and all are welcome to pay their homage to the Saint. On weekends, the pilgrims visit and venerate the relics in large numbers while on weekdays, the numbers vary according to the convenience of the people. In a day there are eight Masses, wherein the pilgrims can participate in the Masses at the Basilica of Bom Jesus,” says Father Joseph.

Goa tourism officials say that the department has been promoting the Exposition through various campaigns, activities and at various travel conferences, including the recently concluded World Travel Market at London.

“Goa Tourism has been actively promoting the Saint Francis Xavier Exposition to ensure it reaches a global audience. The event has been highlighted at major travel marts and roadshows, both in India and internationally, attracting tourists interested in exploring the cultural and spiritual side of Goa,” they add.

Preparations for this exposition have been underway for over two years to ensure a seamless experience for the large number of visitors expected.

“Prior to the exposition, a lot of work has gone in making the exposition a success. The placing of various committees for different departments, volunteers, helpers, well-wishers, and collaborators have been a backbone to the smooth flow of the exposition. The government has been also instrumental in providing the required help for the exposition. On this occasion, a website for the 18^th Exposition of Sacred Relics of St Francis Xavier 2024 was launched at the hands of the Exposition Committee convenor Rev Fr Henry Falcao. It has been created in collaboration with the Archdiocese of Goa Daman and Diu and aims to provide pilgrims and visitors with comprehensive details about the Exposition, ensuring their journey to and participation in this momentous event is seamless and well-informed,” adds the priest.

“I had a very comfortable experience. There were ushers all around helping and guiding people. There is also wheelchair assistance for those with physical disabilities,” says Lopes.

Locals say that the Exposition is not only a religious gathering but a celebration of Goa’s rich cultural and historical heritage. The event serves as a powerful reminder of the missionary’s enduring influence on Christianity in Asia and is a time for deep spiritual reflection. It also offers pilgrims not just witness a momentous religious event, but also explore Goa’s beautiful architecture, vibrant culture and serene landscapes.