Solemn Exposition of St. Francis Xavier’s Relics to Begin on November

Panaji, Goa: The 18th Exposition of the Sacred Relics of St. Francis Xavier, the revered "Goycho Saib" (Patron of Goa), will commence on November 21 in Old Goa, continuing a centuries-old tradition held every ten years. The spiritual event, organized by the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman, will begin with a Solemn Eucharist at 9:30 a.m. and a procession carrying the Sacred Relics to the Se Cathedral Church. The Exposition will run until January 5, 2025, offering 45 days for the faithful and pilgrims to venerate the relics.

During the Exposition, the Sacred Relics will be displayed at the See Cathedral Church for public veneration. On January 5, 2025, a solemn procession will return the relics to the Basilica of Bom Jesus, followed by a closing Eucharist. The Exposition is marked not only by religious ceremonies but also by an art exhibition featuring prominent artists and the release of a commemorative book on St. Francis Xavier’s life, focusing on the silver casket that houses his incorruptible remains.

Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrao, Archbishop of Goa and Daman, has appointed a special committee to oversee the event’s organization. He also urged priests to lead pilgrimages to Old Goa, especially with youth and catechism students, as part of this significant spiritual journey. A special prayer for renewal and peace has been introduced for the occasion.

The sacred casket underwent restoration last year, preserving the 400-year-old artifact for this grand occasion.