St. Joseph Vaz was born on 21 April 1651 in the village of Benaulim in Goa, at a time when the Christian faith was growing but also facing many challenges. From a young age, Joseph showed a deep love for prayer and learning. He studied philosophy and theology and was ordained a priest in 1676. Even as a young priest, he was known for his humility, simple lifestyle and great concern for the poor and the sick.
During his time, many parts of Asia, especially Sri Lanka (then known as Ceylon), were facing severe persecution of Christians. Churches were destroyed, priests were banished and people were afraid to openly practise their faith. Hearing about the suffering of Christians there, Fr. Joseph Vaz felt a strong call from God to serve them. Leaving behind the comfort of his homeland, he volunteered to go as a missionary. He joined the Oratorian Congregation of Goa and in 1687 set out on a dangerous journey to Sri Lanka, trusting completely in God.
When St. Joseph Vaz reached Sri Lanka, he lived like an ordinary poor man, often disguised as a labourer, to avoid arrest. He travelled from village to village on foot, secretly celebrating Mass, administering the sacraments and strengthening the faith of the people. He faced hunger, illness, loneliness and constant danger, yet he never complained. His life was marked by prayer, penance and total dedication to God’s people.
A turning point in his mission came during a severe drought in the kingdom of Kandy. The king asked Fr. Joseph Vaz to pray for rain. After his fervent prayers, heavy rains fell, saving the land and its people. This miracle changed the king’s attitude and St. Joseph Vaz was given freedom to preach openly. He rebuilt communities, restored churches and trained local leaders so that the faith could continue even after his death. By the time he passed away on 16 January 1711, the Church in Sri Lanka was alive and strong, thanks to his tireless efforts.
St. Joseph Vaz was canonised as a saint by Pope Francis in 2015, becoming the first Goan to be declared a saint. His life teaches us powerful lessons even today. He shows us what it means to trust God completely, to serve without seeking recognition and to remain faithful even in difficult circumstances. His simplicity, humility and love for all people inspire us to live our Christian life more sincerely.
As we remember St. Joseph Vaz, we are invited to look up to him as a model of true discipleship. In our daily lives, we may not face persecution like he did, but we are called to be courageous in our faith, to help those in need and to spread love and hope wherever we are. By following his example, we can become instruments of God’s grace in our families, parishes and communities, just as St. Joseph Vaz was in his lifetime.
-Ashodi Ferro