Subash Velingkar’s remarks stating St Francis Xavier should not be given the title of ‘patron saint of Goa’ has stirred the communal cauldron in the State.
Velingkar claims that Lord Parshuram is a better candidate to be called ‘Goencho Saib’ as he was the one who created Goa by shooting an arrow into the seas which pushed back the water and created Goa.
Velingkar has his own arguments. That is not a problem. He can give as many titles to as many Gods and Catholics will have no problem with that.
What I cannot understand is what right has Velingkar got and who is Velingkar to take away the title of Goencho Saib from St Francis Xavier?
Velingkar seems to be stirring the communal pot with support from his masters.
It is not only Catholics who have faith in St Xavier. Hindus, Muslims and others too revere St Xavier and have proclaimed his miracles.
St Francis is a strength for every Goan, be it Hindu, Muslim or Christian. He is compassionate and forgiving.
Velingkar should know that even if hundreds and thousands of Velingkars are born, they will not be able to take away the title of Goencho Saib from our St Francis Xavier.
