Solemn Feast of St. Joseph Vaz to Be Celebrated on January 16 in Goa

Goa, January 13, 2025: The Archdiocese of Goa and Daman will celebrate the solemn feast of St. Joseph Vaz, its patron, on January 16 at the historic site of the Old Church of Our Lady of Health, Rua Escravo de Maria, Sancoale, Goa.

The highlight of the celebrations will be the Solemn High Concelebrated Mass at 10.00 a.m., presided over by Bishop Simião Fernandes, Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman. Bishop Fernandes will also deliver the homily, centred on the theme, “Filled with Hope, St. Joseph Vaz proclaimed Christ through the ministry of service.”

In the days leading up to the feast, the faithful have been participating in novena services held at the venue, with large numbers attending daily. Organisers have dedicated each day of the novena to a different diocesan apostolate, while various deaneries celebrate two Masses each day as part of the spiritual preparation.

On the feast day, the Church will offer multiple opportunities for worship, with Masses scheduled at 5.00 a.m., 6.00 a.m., 7.30 a.m., 8.45 a.m., 10.00 a.m. (the Solemn Mass), 4.00 p.m. and 5.30 p.m. In addition, the Oratory of St Joseph Vaz will host a special Mass at 12 noon.

Church authorities have invited the faithful to take part prayerfully in the liturgical celebrations and to seek the intercession of St. Joseph Vaz. Remembered for his missionary zeal, pastoral charity and spirit of service, the saint’s life and witness continue to inspire the Church in Goa and far beyond its borders.

By Bro. Malvino Alfonso

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