The 18th Exhibition of the Relics of Saint Francis Xavier (1506-1552) was inaugurated on Nov. 21, drawing thousands of faithful to Goa’s historic old town.
Held once every ten years, the event offers a rare opportunity for veneration of the Jesuit missionary’s remains, deeply revered by Catholics in India and beyond.
The relics, typically housed in the Basilica of Bom Jesus, have been transferred to the Cathedral of Goa for public viewing until Jan. 5, 2025.
“The motivation is faith. The faithful come here to pray and touch the remains of Saint Francis Xavier, not out of curiosity or for a tourist visit,” said Fr. Fermino Savio D’Souza, parish priest of Our Lady of Miracles in Goa, to Fides News Agency.
Fr. D’Souza, who is actively involved in youth ministry, underscored the deep devotion to the saint, describing him as “the protector of our country.”
The exhibition coincided with the feast of Saint Francis Xavier on Dec. 3, a pivotal moment marked by Masses celebrated in multiple languages and a large influx of pilgrims from early morning.
“There is a deep popular piety that is experienced not only during this special period of the exhibition but also in ordinary time. It is the faith of the little ones, the simple ones, that is very precious,” Fr. D’Souza added.
Saint Francis Xavier, one of the founding members of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits), is venerated worldwide for his missionary work.
Following his death on Dec. 3, 1552, on the island of Shangchuan off the Chinese coast, his body was exhumed and transferred through several locations before being brought to Goa in early 1554.
Despite the passage of years, his remains reportedly showed no signs of decomposition and have been venerated ever since.
“Many pilgrims come from the communities of Goa, but also from other parts of India, especially from southern areas such as Kerala and Tamil Nadu, where there is a strong Catholic presence,” said Fr. D’Souza.
The exhibition has also become a powerful moment of evangelization for the youth. Father D’Souza highlighted the significant role young people have played in this event, including forming a human chain to protect the relics during their transfer.
“It is exciting and impressive to see how young people are also getting involved in this spiritual time, which is marked by prayer and testimony of faith,” he said. “I would say that this is a time of witness and also of evangelization for the Catholic community in India.”
Known for its beaches and vibrant cultural scene, Goa remains a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists.
However, the exhibition transforms the region into a center of spiritual reflection. “Goa is also a popular destination for young people: it is a place of parties, music and dance.
Because of its countless beaches, it is also popular with European tourists,” observed Fr. D’Souza. “And when you go to church, you see many young people in prayer and reflection.”
