THE GOAN NETWORK
OLD GOA
Having realised that free shawls given to visitors to ensure they are decently attired while entering churches in Old Goa have had unexpected results, authorities at Se Cathedral have begun charging a nominal fee for shawls to indecently clad visitors if they are to enter the cathedral.
Speaking to The Goan, Se Cathedral Parish Priest Fr Alfred Vaz informed that those visitors found wearing short dresses or inappropriate attire are being provided shawls at a nominal fee of Rs 100.
Justifying the decision to levy a fee of Rs 100 for the shawl, Fr Vaz added: “In the Bom Jesus Basilica, shawls were freely provided to tourists but they were not returned to the church after the visit.”
The move to enforce a strict 'code of conduct' comes after the catholic community was offended that many visitors, specially domestic tourists, had failed to respect the sacred identity of churches.
“There were two issues of concern, one was the dress code and second was sanctity for the shrine, as some tourists were found shouting or sleeping on the church pews,” said Fr Vaz.
“The issue of indecent behaviour and attire was discussed at the Parish Pastoral Council (PPC) and it was decided to put up boards to create awareness among people initially for six months,” informed Fr Vaz.
Acting on suggestions, signboards to create awareness among visitors on the importance of appropriate attire were put up at the entrance to Se Cathedral.
“Two lady staff have been stationed at the entrance of the church to monitor visitors entering with indecent attire, besides those who create disturbances once inside the church.”
“At least six staff are required to deal with the situation very strictly, but this means shelling out more money on salaries. So, we started out with only two staff. During holidays, there is no problem as the parishioners volunteer their services,” Fr Vaz said.
“At present, one stays at the door and the other takes a round inside the Church to ensure that tourists maintain the sanctity of the religious site. The side door of the church was closed with the permission of the ASI and this helps in the monitoring process.”
“The dress code is applicable to locals as well,” clarified Fr Vaz.
When brought to his notice that though a similar dress code is applicable in the Basilica, the monitoring had not been strict, Fr Vaz said: “The Bom Jesus Basilica rector Fr Savio Barretto is also working out a solution to implement a code of conduct.”
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