St. Sebastian Church

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

Goa Liberation Day celebrated annually on December 19th, Marks a historical moment . It commemorates the liberation of Portuguese colonial rule which lasted for 450 years making it one of the oldest European colonies in India.
Goa was colonized by the Portuguese in 1510 and remained under their control even after India gained Independence from the British rule. Despite peaceful negotiation and diplomatic efforts by the Indian Government to persuade the Portuguese to leave, the colonial power remained adamant. By the early 1960’s the India Government led by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru decided that military intervention was the only solution on December 18, 1961 Operation Vijay was launched. The Indian Armed Forces i.e. Army, Navy and Air force entered Goa with the mission to end Portuguese rule. The operation lasted less than 36 hours on December 19, 1961, Goa along with Daman and Diu was finally liberated and integrated into India.

The All Goa Association of Bakers (AGAB), celebrated their traditional annual thanksgiving mass on Tuesday, October 8, 2024 at St Sebastian Church, Aquem – Alto, Margao, on the occasion of ”The International Bakers Day’ celebrations in Goa.
Since the past few years, the AGAB has been celebrating their annual thanksgiving mass in our parish.
In his message Fr Agnelo Rodrigues, Parish Priest, St Sebastian Church, said that it was a happy occasion that our brothers in the bakers trade celebrate their annual thanksgiving mass at St Sebastian Church in a very special way and offer their gratitude and thanks to the Almighty for the many blessings received in their lives and profession throughout the year.

Sotmantam hem magnnem uchartanam, ‘Bhoktancho Ektar’, ami mhonntanv. Bhoktancho Ektar, amchea bhavartachem sot. Bhag. Paulu apurbaien, ‘Bhokt’ ho xobd Kristi somudaianchea vangddeank vapuddta. To “Akaient ximpoddleleam bhoktank” (2 Kor 1:1), “Efez xarant asleleam bhoktank” (Efez 1:1), Dhormdutancho Itihas bi Kristachea pattlaudarak Bhokt mhonnta. Dor ek Kristanv zo Povitr Snana vorvim Jezunt ek zala to hea utrachea survechea ortha pormonnem, Bhokt!

November’s the month that continues the autumnal transition, bringing with it a lot of cultural, historical and social observances. As the year 2024 draws towards its end, this month offers a variety of significant days that celebrate achievements, raise awareness and also honour important figures.

November 1st kicks off for us, Christians, with the All Saints Day. This year this day also coincides with Diwali, a major festival symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. This is a day commemorating all the Saints of the Church, both known and unknown, who have attained heaven, and for whom there is no specific Feast Day during the year. This is followed by All Souls Day, on 2nd November to commemorate all those who have passed away in their faith and are believed to be in purgatory because they died with the guilt of lesser sins on their souls. Our doctrine holds that the prayers of the faithful on earth, will help to cleanse these souls in order to fit them for the vision of our Heavenly Father in heaven.

St. Catherine was born in 287 AD and died in 305 AD, aged 18, in Alexandria, Egypt. At that time Alexandria was one of the finest cities in the world, a centre of learning, culture and faith. Christian tradition states that Catherine was of noble birth and possibly a princess. Her story is of a brave and faithful young woman, whose life illustrates the power of courageous faith. She was the fairest in the land and the most beautiful. She was wealthy, brilliant, had lots of sense and could argue with Philosophers. She was virtuous and did not have time for pagan suitors who wanted to make her a ‘trophy wife’. She wanted to be dedicated to Jesus Christ her whole life.

Sarah: Michael, with All Saints Day and All Souls Day coming up, I’ve been wondering about their significance in our Catholic faith. Could you explain them to me?
Michael: Absolutely, Sarah! All Saints Day is celebrated on November 1st. It’s a solemnity honoring all the saints, both known and unknown. We recognize their lives of virtue and their intercession for us.
Sarah: So it’s a day to celebrate those who have already reached heaven?
Michael: Exactly! It reminds us of our call to holiness. The saints serve as examples and intercessors, guiding us on our own faith journeys.

(3/11/2024)

‘By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established; by knowledge the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches.'(Proverbs 24:3-4)

‘Family Day,’ is celebrated to foster stronger family ties, encourage reflection on the importance of family, and express gratitude. This day highlights the value of spending time together, which is essential for emotional well-being and mental health. The mission of the family and the society, complement each other, for Good families can build a Good Society!