The decennial exposition of the relics of Saint Francis Xavier is one of the most significant religious and cultural events in Goa. For over four centuries, this sacred tradition has drawn pilgrims, devotees, and tourists alike to the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa, where the incorrupt body of Saint Francis Xavier is enshrined. The event holds deep spiritual meaning for the faithful and offers a unique glimpse into Goa’s rich history and heritage. The exposition not only celebrates the life and works of this great missionary but also serves as a reminder of Goa’s enduring Christian legacy.
Saint Francis Xavier: The Patron of Goa
Saint Francis Xavier (1506-1552), a Jesuit missionary and one of the founding members of the Society of Jesus, is widely regarded as one of the greatest missionaries in Christian history. Born in the Kingdom of Navarre (now part of Spain), Xavier traveled extensively across Asia, evangelizing in places like India, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Japan, and China. He arrived in Goa in 1542, and it was here that he spent a significant part of his missionary work, laying the foundations for Christianity in the region. His efforts were instrumental in spreading the Christian faith, and he is remembered not just as a missionary but as a great spiritual leader who dedicated his life to the service of God.
Saint Francis Xavier died in 1552 on the island of Sancian (near China), but his body was preserved through miraculous means, leading to its eventual enshrinement in the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa. His canonization in 1622 by Pope Gregory XV further solidified his place as one of the most revered saints in Catholicism, particularly in India and the broader Asia-Pacific region.
The Relics: A Living Legacy of Faith
The relics of Saint Francis Xavier are considered to be not just physical remains but a powerful symbol of his holiness and sanctity. These relics, which include his body and a portion of his arm, are displayed to the public in a glass casket during the exposition, which is held every ten years. During this period, the faithful come from all corners of the globe to pay their respects and seek blessings. The spectacle of seeing the saint’s body, remarkably preserved for over four centuries, serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of faith and the impact of St. Xavier’s missionary work.
The exposition is a deeply spiritual event that draws millions of pilgrims, particularly from Goa and other parts of India, but also from countries as diverse as Portugal, Italy, and the Philippines. For the Catholic community, it is an opportunity to not only honor Saint Francis Xavier’s life and legacy but also to reflect on their own spiritual journeys.
The History of the Exposition
The first formal exposition of Saint Francis Xavier’s relics took place in 1637, 85 years after his death. Since then, the event has become a regular feature in the religious calendar of Goa, although it was not until the 19th century that it became an every-decade affair. The relics are typically exposed for a period of about 45 days, beginning on the 4th of December, which marks the anniversary of the saint’s death, and lasting through to the feast of the Epiphany on January 6th.
The occasion is not merely a religious gathering but a cultural and social event that unites people of all walks of life. Over the years, the exposition has grown in significance, with devotional programs, processions, music, and cultural performances accompanying the religious services. The Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site, serves as the focal point for the event, drawing visitors to its majestic Baroque architecture and its serene, spiritual atmosphere.
A Hub of Devotion and Pilgrimage
For many Goans, the exposition is an important part of their religious life. The devotion to Saint Francis Xavier runs deep in the hearts of the people of Goa, and the annual event is a reminder of the region’s Christian roots. Pilgrims come not only from within India but from across the world to honor the saint, and the experience of seeing his relics up close is a deeply moving one.
In addition to the spiritual significance, the exposition also fosters a sense of community. The pilgrimage becomes an occasion for families to come together, for friends to reunite, and for the entire Goan community to celebrate their shared faith. The event brings together Catholics of all denominations, transcending the boundaries of social and economic status, as they stand united in prayer and reverence.
Gladys Da silva