Powerful Testimonies from Old Goa Pilgrims on St. Francis Xavier's Feast

Old Goa, December 3, 2025: Thousands have arrived in Old Goa for the Feast of St. Francis Xavier. They have traveled from near and far, many walking hundreds of kilometers, their journey a vivid demonstration of unwavering devotion, sacrifice, and deep gratitude for the saint's intercession. Every footstep tells a story; every prayer holds a miracle. Here are some of their remarkable accounts.

Sharing his testimony, Adv. Sanjay D’Cruz from Belgaum said that his devotion to St. Francis Xavier deepened after he and his wife lost their child in 2007, a tragedy that moved him to begin the walking pilgrimage that same year. In 2009, he felt inspired to ask his wife to join him, though five days’ leave seemed impossible. “But God’s plan was something else,” he said, as a Jesuit priest unexpectedly granted permission. With faith and the saint’s strength, they completed the pilgrimage. That month, the late Fr. Prabhudhar told them she would conceive—a prophecy fulfilled. Their daughter was born soon after, and they named her Francesca in gratitude.

Sr. Armida D’Cruz, SFN, joined her Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth, Goa on their annual walking pilgrimage to Old Goa, a spiritual initiative introduced by their Founder, Rev. Fr. Faustino De Souza who was a great devotee of St Francis Xavier. Throughout the journey she felt strengthened by God’s grace rather than tired. “The pilgrimage, renewed my spirit and deepened my vocation, reminding me that with Jesus, one never walks alone.” Said Sr Armida.

Joining the Walking Pilgrimage together with her parish community, Vera Rodrigues from Goa shared that although she initially thought the journey would be difficult, she has now completed the walk for the sixth consecutive year. She explained that she undertook the pilgrimage as an act of sacrifice, seeking Jesus’ favour through the intercession of St Francis Xavier, who himself had walked great distances during his missionary journeys. Vera said that her family had experienced many graces through this devotion, including her husband’s improved health, which she attributed to the intercession of the saint.

Hailing from Mumbai, Abigail Estibeiro said that St. Francis Xavier’s intercession has greatly blessed her family. She recalled praying for a home of their own—a hope that once seemed financially and practically impossible. “I know it wasn’t luck, it was a blessing,” she said, describing how they eventually received their own flat. Abigail also shared about 2019, when her father suffered a stroke and the family felt lost. Through the saint’s intercession, and by watching Mass on YouTube every day, her father slowly regained physical and spiritual strength. She remains deeply grateful for the ways the saint has touched their lives.

Viya from Sangargalli, Belgaum, described the pilgrimage to Goa for the feast of St. Francis Xavier as ‘a true test of faith and endurance.’ A group of 127 pilgrims walked for three days, covering 150 km through dense jungle paths where humidity and rough terrain made every step difficult. They crossed streams and even a wide, rain-swollen river, supporting one another through the strong currents. “As fatigue and swelling set in, prayers and shared encouragement kept us moving.” Said Viya . She said that reaching the Basilica brought deep peace and gratitude, teaching them resilience, unity, and the strength of walking in faith.

For Dr. Remeth Jacky Dias from Ajara, Kolhapur, the Goa walking pilgrimage has been a sacred part of his life for 33 years. He first joined the journey from Gadhinglaj as an 11th-standard student, and the devotion has remained ever since. Preparation begins a month earlier, when dreams of the walk and the melodies of hymns fill his heart. From 28 November to 2 December, all other concerns are set aside to meet Goecho Saib. For him, the walking pilgrimage is prayer, fellowship, and service—journeying together, caring for one another, and proclaiming the Lord.

By Br. Malvino Alfonso OCD