Astronomical marvel witnessed at Margao church

Visitors kept the date with the Holy Spirit Church on March 21 to witness the Vernal equinox, which marks the beginning of Spring in the northern hemisphere. The spectacle will again be visible in the Church during the autumnal equinox on September 23.

Members of the Astronomy Association informed that the spectacle takes place every year on March 21 and on September 23 when the beams of sunlight from the oculus windows of the church illuminate the statues of Jesus, Mother Mary and the Dove.

Gaurva Dhumatkar, a member of the Friends of Astronomy Association, told the media that the equinox spectacle took place at the Holy Spirit Church on Tuesday.

“The sun rays fell on the altar and the emblem of the Holy Spirit through the right and the left windows and through the oculus in the middle of the Church façade. The beams fall on the status of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Mother Mary and the emblem of the Holy Spirit at every equinox in March and September,” he said.

Fatorda MLA Vijai Sardesai said this is an astronomical event taking place at the Holy Spirit Church twice a year. “We need to appreciate this historical importance. This is an architectural wonder. This is part of our history, heritage and respect for the environment,” Sardesai said.

To a question, the Fatorda MLA said this astronomical event, which is taking place twice a year at the Holy Spirit Church, should be taught in the school to make the students as well as the common man understand the significance of the event.

“Why not, the Goan students should be taught of this astronomical wonder,” he said while reacting to a query from scribes about whether this should be included in the test books.