OLD GOA
Tens of thousands of devotees and pilgrims from all over Goa and beyond will honour their 'Goencho Saib', as they participate in the feast of St Francis Xavier at Old Goa on Saturday.
This year, the theme for the novenas and feast has been “Inspired by St Francis Xavier, let us be messengers of God’s mercy”. Bishop Theodore Mascarenhas, Secretary General of Catholic Bishops Conference of India and a Pilar father, will be the main celebrant for the Feast Mass at 10.30 am, while con-celebrants will include Archbishop Filip Neri Ferrao and scores of priests.
On the feast day, masses will begin as early as 4 am and continue at 5 am, 6 am, 7 am, 8 am, 9 am, feast mass at 10.30 am, 12.30 pm, 3 pm (Spanish), 4 pm, 5 pm and 6 pm (English).
The nine-day novena in honour of the famed Jesuit saint ended on Friday, with lakhs of devotees and pilgrims attending the many novena Masses celebrated between 6 am and 6.15 pm. People were seen in long queues to venerate the Sacred Relics of St Francis Xavier, while others were seen patronising the numerous stalls line up outside the Bom Jesus Basilica and Se Cathedral.
Other religious services were also conducted in and around the Bom Jesus Basilica, which included an inter-religious meet, administration of Reconciliation and other events.
Various facilities for pilgrims, including sanitation, mobile toilets, water supply, medical facilities and parking, were also provided in and around the venue.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Laxmikant Parsekar has warmly greeted the people of Goa on the occasion of ‘Goinchea Saibache’ feast.
He further appreciated that people of all faiths participate in this feast which spreads the message of unity, harmony and brings prosperity to all communities in the State.
