THE GOAN NETWORK
CANACONA: Hundreds of faithful on Monday participated in the feast of Goencho Saib at the St Francis Xavier Church in Bhatpal, where a Relic (nail) of the saint is venerated annually.
Delivering his homily, the main celebrant at the feast mass Fr Victor Ferrao, professor at Rachol Seminary, highlighted the life and works of St Francis Xavier.
“Though St Francis Xavier worked just over 7 months to spread the good word and carry on his social obligations, he served in many other parts of India and the world. God has, however, blessed us as Goa as the permanent abode of his incorruptible body,” said Fr Ferrao.
The feast mass con-celebrated by four priests, including Bhatpal Parish Priest Fr Avito Almeida, was celebrated at 10 am.
Devotees who turned out in large numbers at the feast mass, later took part in a procession carrying the Relic of St Francis Xavier, which was brought down from the altar of the church during the novenas and later kept in the church, where hundreds lined up to venerate.
As an annual practice, many of the villagers who work or reside abroad make it a point to return home for the feast. Families residing at neighbouring Majali, Sadashivghad and Karwar in Karnataka area also attend the feast at Bhatpal in large numbers.
Canacona police made elaborate arrangements for the smooth flow of highway traffic on the NH-66, which passes in front of the Bhatpal church.
A Konkani drama 'Kolakar' was later staged late Monday evening in aid of the church, while another tiatr is also scheduled on Tuesday night as part of the feast celebrations.
