Tag: Basilica of Bom Jesus

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Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa Closed for Visitors on November 8

Tanisha Cardozo

The Basilica of Bom Jesus, one of Goa’s most iconic landmarks, will remain closed to tourists and visitors on Saturday, November 8, 2025, due to a special religious service. While the 6 am and 7 am Konkani Masses will continue as usual, the 8 am English Mass has been cancelled to accommodate the special service scheduled at 10:30 am exclusively for invited attendees.

This temporary closure is aimed at ensuring the smooth conduct of the religious program and providing a serene environment for attendees. Visitors planning to explore the Basilica on this day are advised to make alternate arrangements.

Furthermore, tourists and devotees are urged to exercise caution from November 10 to 23, 2025, as preparations will be underway for the Novena and the Feast of St. Francis Xavier, one of the most significant religious celebrations in the region. These preparations include logistical arrangements, crowd management, and special event setups that may temporarily affect regular visitor access.

Fr. Patricio Fernandes SJ, the Rector of the Basilica, emphasized the importance of observing these temporary restrictions to maintain the sanctity of the religious events and ensure the safety of all visitors.

The Basilica of Bom Jesus, recognized for housing the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier, continues to attract thousands of pilgrims and tourists annually. Visitors planning to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site are encouraged to check the schedule in advance and plan their visit around these special events to avoid inconvenience.

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The Sacred Relics of Saint Francis Xavier Make Their Way Back to the Basilica of Bom Jesus

allycaralgoa

In a solemn and deeply moving ceremony, the revered relics of Saint Francis Xavier were ceremoniously transferred from the Se Cathedral Church to the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa. This poignant event marked the culmination of the Exposition, a sacred ritual that takes place every decade, where the relics are put on display for the faithful to venerate.

As the relics were carefully transported in a majestic procession, devotees and pilgrims lined the streets, eager to catch a glimpse of the sacred remains of the patron saint of Goa. The atmosphere was electric, filled with devotion, prayer, and reverence.

The relics, which include the saint’s mortal remains, were accompanied by priests, bishops, and other dignitaries, who prayed and sang hymns as they made their way to the Basilica. The procession was a testament to the deep faith and devotion of the people of Goa, who hold Saint Francis Xavier in the highest esteem.

The Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the final resting place of Saint Francis Xavier, and the relics will once again be enshrined within the ornate silver casket, adorned with precious stones. The casket is a masterpiece of Goan craftsmanship and a symbol of the state’s rich cultural heritage.

The Exposition, which drew millions of devotees from across the globe, was a resounding success, with many reporting spiritual experiences and a deep sense of connection with the saint. As the relics return to their resting place, the faithful will continue to pray and seek the intercession of Saint Francis Xavier, who remains an integral part of Goa’s identity and spiritual fabric.

A Brief History of the Relics

Saint Francis Xavier, a Jesuit missionary, arrived in Goa in 1542 and spent several years spreading Christianity in the region. After his death in 1552, his body was brought back to Goa and initially buried in the College of St. Paul. In 1554, the body was transferred to the Basilica of Bom Jesus, where it has remained ever since.

Over the centuries, the relics have been the subject of great devotion, with many reporting miracles and healings. The Exposition, which takes place every decade, is a rare opportunity for the faithful to venerate the relics and seek the intercession of the saint.

A Symbol of Faith and Devotion

The transfer of the relics back to the Basilica of Bom Jesus marks the end of the Exposition, but the devotion and reverence for Saint Francis Xavier will continue unabated. The relics remain a powerful symbol of faith, hope, and redemption, inspiring generations of Goans and devotees from around the world.