CHURCH Fest in old Goa | South Goa Catholic church | old video _ re upload

Goinchea Saibache Fest or the Lord of Goa Festival) is the largest Christian festival in Goa, celebrated annually on December 3rd at the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa. [1, 2, 3] Key Details & Bio of the Feast Date: Celebrated every year on December 3rd, marking the anniversary of the saint's death/burial. [1, 2] Preceded by Novenas: A 9-day spiritual novena leads up to the main feast day, drawing massive crowds of local and international pilgrims. [1, 2] Mass Timings & Services: Solemn high masses run from early morning (around 4:00 AM) through the evening, presided over by archbishops and bishops. [1, 2, 3] The Sacred Relics: The incorrupt mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier rest inside an ornate silver casket (constructed by Goan silversmiths blending Italian and Indian art) inside the Basilica of Bom Jesus. Every 10 years, a public exposition of the body is held. [1, 2, 3, 4] The Traditional Fair: The surrounding area hosts a bustling open-air fair featuring local food, clothing, religious souvenirs, and trinkets. [1, 2, 3] Saint Francis Xavier Bio & History Arrival in Goa: Arrived in Old Goa on May 6, 1542, as a Jesuit missionary appointed by the Pope. [1, 2] Legacy: Co-founded the Jesuit order with St. Ignatius of Loyola, spearheaded education and hospital ministry at St. Paul’s College, and converted thousands across Asia. [1, 2, 3] Passing: Died of a fever at age 46 on December 3, 1552, on Shangchuan Island (China), before his body was eventually brought back and enshrined in Old Goa. [1, 2, 3] Official Resources & Planning Check schedules and tourist assistance through the Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC). View official government festival details on the Utsav Portal by Ministry of Tourism. Explore historical descriptions and architecture on the Encyclopædia Britannica Basilica of Bom Jesus Page. [1, 2, 3]