What if I told you that there is a place in India where you can witness a festival that is so grand and magnificent that it attracts thousands of people from all over the world? A festival that combines faith, culture, and tradition in a spectacular way. A festival that honors a saint who performed miracles and spread Christianity in Asia. Would you be interested? If yes, then you should know about the St. Francis Xavier feast 2023 dates in Goa, also known as Goencho Saib, in Goa.
This festival happens every year on December 3, but this year, there is a twist. Because December 3 is also the first day of Advent, the St. Francis Xavier feast 2023 will be held on December 4 instead. In this blog, I will tell you everything you need to know about this amazing St. Xavier feast 2023 and how to enjoy it.
Who Was St. Francis Xavier?
St. Francis Xavier is the patron saint of Goa. He was a Christian missionary who came to Goa on the 6th May 1542, and he took 13 months to reach Goa from Lisbon the capital of Portuguese and preached the gospel to the people. He also traveled to other parts of Asia, such as Japan, China, and Indonesia, and converted many people to Christianity. He is believed to have miraculous powers and can heal and protect people from diseases and dangers. The Feast of St. Francis Xavier is a way for the people of Goa to show their gratitude and devotion to him.
How to Prepare for the Feast: The Novena
The Feast of St. Francis Xavier is not a one-day event; it is a nine-day celebration that starts on November 25. This period is called the Novena, which means nine days of prayer and preparation. During these days, there are many religious and cultural activities that take place in Goa. There are masses, processions, hymns, dances, dramas, and fireworks. There are also stalls that sell food, drinks, souvenirs, and handicrafts. The Novena is a time for people to get into the mood of the festival and celebrate their faith and culture.
What Makes This Year Special: The Advent
This year, the Feast of St. Francis Xavier has a special significance because it coincides with the first day of Advent. Advent is a season in the Christian calendar that marks the anticipation of the birth of Jesus Christ on Christmas Day. It lasts for four weeks before Christmas and is a time for people to prepare their hearts and minds for the coming of Jesus. To respect this important day, the Feast of St. Francis Xavier will be celebrated on December 4 instead of December 3.
How to Celebrate the Feast: The Mass
The main event of the Feast of St. Francis Xavier is the special mass that takes place at 10:30 am on December 4 at the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa. This is where the body of St. Francis Xavier is kept in a silver casket inside a glass case. The casket is opened once every ten years for public viewing, but this year, However, this does not stop the pilgrims and devotees from flocking to the Basilica to attend the mass and pray to the saint. They believe that by being near his body, they can receive his blessings and miracles.
The celebration continues throughout the day with more masses and ceremonies to accommodate everyone who wants to participate. It is a day of joy and reverence, a day where people express their faith and love for St. Francis Xavier.
Location and Date of the St. Francis Xavier
The celebration of the St. Francis Xavier feast is scheduled for December 4th, 2023, in the historic town of Old Goa.
What Else to Do: The Festivities
The Feast of St. Francis Xavier is not only about religion; it is also about culture and fun. There are many things to do and see in Goa during this time. You can enjoy the local cuisine, music, art, and crafts that showcase the diversity and richness of Goa’s culture. You can also visit other historical and religious sites in Goa, such as the Se Cathedral, the Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception, or Fort Aguada. You can also relax on one of Goa’s many beautiful beaches or indulge in some adventure sports like parasailing or scuba diving.
Conclusion:
The Feast of St. Francis Xavier in Goa is more than just a religious festival; it is a cultural phenomenon that showcases the beauty and diversity of Goa. It is a festival that pays tribute to the saint who brought Christianity to Goa and other parts of Asia, and whose legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of the people. In 2023, the festival’s shift to align with Advent shows the flexibility and adaptability of the celebration, highlighting the strong faith of the Goan people. This is a festival that you should not miss if you want to experience something extraordinary and unforgettable.
