Tag: Religious Events

#faith

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.

Events in Goa

Feast Mass at the historic Raj Bhavan Chapel in Goa on August 15, 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

The serene and historic Raj Bhavan Chapel in Goa will host its annual Feast Mass on August 15, 2025, coinciding with India’s Independence Day. The Eucharistic celebration is set to begin at 10:00 AM, with the gates opening for devotees at 9:00 AM.

This significant religious event sees the gathering of devotees from across Goa and beyond, coming together in prayer and reverence in one of the most prestigious and spiritual locations in the state.

Security Protocols and Entry Requirements:
 To ensure a smooth and secure experience for all attendees, the following guidelines are in place:

  • Entry will be allowed only upon presenting a valid photo ID at the main gate.
  • No handbags or large personal belongings will be allowed inside the Raj Bhavan premises.
  • All attendees are requested to park their vehicles at the Raj Bhavan helipad and walk to the chapel.
  • No hawkers or stalls will be permitted within the campus, though they may set up outside the main gate.
  • For security reasons, all devotees are kindly requested to vacate the premises by 1:00 PM.

This event is not just a religious gathering but also a moment of reflection and community spirit, held in one of the most beautiful and secure locations in Goa.

Let us come together in prayer, with humility and discipline, to celebrate this blessed occasion.