What’s New in the Third Edition of 'Goencho Saib: Biography of St. Francis Xavier'?

One significant contribution to the ongoing exposition in Goa is the release of the third edition of “Goencho Saib: Biography of St. Francis Xavier”. Authored by veteran Goan journalist Rajan Narayan, this revised edition of the book was released on November 24, 2024. The book offers readers a fresh, in-depth look at the life and legacy of St. Francis Xavier, whose influence on Goa and its people continues to resonate centuries after his passing.  

A Healing Journey: The Genesis of "Goencho Saib" 

The journey of “Goencho Saib: Biography of St. Francis Xavier” began in 1994 when Narayan embarked on the project during a time when he was grappling with a severe medical condition. Recovering from a debilitating steroid-induced condition called Addison’s, Narayan found solace and purpose in writing the biography of St. Francis Xavier. “I was extremely weak, physically and mentally,” he recalls, “and I was told not to exert myself. Writing about St. Francis Xavier, however, had a healing effect, both on my body and spirit.” 

It was Fr. Rego, the then Rector of the Bom Jesus Basilica, who encouraged Narayan to take on this significant task of writing the biography of St. Francis Xavier. The timing of the Exposition of St. Francis Xavier’s relics in 1994 seemed providential, and financial support from key figures like Pascoal Menezes, the then chairman of the CMM Group, made the first edition of the book a reality.  

Delving Into The Life of St. Francis Xavier 

The research process for the book was as much a spiritual journey as it was an intellectual one. During the time when Narayan embarked on the project, he was unable to move around much due to his medical condition. So his research assistant, Lakshmi, took on the monumental task of gathering material on the life of Saint Francis Xavier. Apart from this, Narayan also obtained information about the saint from the Xavier Institute of Historical Research, Porvorim and the Jesuit Archives at Coimbra, Portugal.  

Narayan found himself enveloped in a sense of serenity as he worked to shape the research into a book. During his journey writing the book, he found himself increasingly inspired by the indomitable spirit of St. Xavier, whose life of faith and service became a mirror for his own struggles. Narayan found healing not only in the process of writing the book but also in the very act of being close to the relics of St. Francis Xavier. In 1994, during the exposition of the relics, Narayan had the privilege of carrying the saint's casket. 

In 2004, Narayan published the second edition of "Goencho Saib", just a few months after launching Goan Observer, Goa's only independent political weekly.  

Miracles and Mysticism: Unveiling the Mysteries of St. Francis Xavier 

One of the most poignant and remarkable stories in "Goencho Saib" is a miraculous event that occurred just before the liberation of Goa in 1961. The Portuguese administration, realizing they were on the brink of defeat, decided to transport the relics of Saint Francis Xavier to Portugal and then destroy Goa. However, when soldiers attempted to lift the casket from the Basilica, they were unable to move it, despite their collective strength. This inexplicable event was interpreted by many as divine intervention, a sign that St. Francis Xavier was protecting Goa from being destroyed. 

For the people of Goa, this moment confirmed the saint’s role as the eternal guardian of the land, a legacy that continues to endure. The story of this miracle stands as a testament to the profound connection between St. Francis Xavier and the people of Goa, who continue to revere him as their protector. 

The Third Edition: What’s New? 

The third edition of Goencho Saib offers fresh insights into the saint’s legacy, as well as a more comprehensive look at the historical and spiritual contexts that shaped his life. The 140-page revised edition is beautifully illustrated with photographs that capture the journey of St. Francis Xavier, highlighting key moments in his life and mission. 

In addition to the biography of St. Francis Xavier, this edition includes chapters on two other important figures: St. José Vaz and Ven. Fr. Agnelo. Both of these individuals played significant roles in the religious history of Goa and are seen as the spiritual heirs of St. Francis Xavier. The book also includes a foreword by Most Reverend Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão, the Archbishop of Goa and Daman. 

Rajan Narayan acknowledges the support of many individuals in bringing this revised edition of his book to life. He expresses deep gratitude to his wife, Tara Narayan, who has been a constant source of encouragement, and to his team—Heena Nawar, Saish Shirodkar, and Deepak Chari—who helped with the editing, marketing, and design of the book. 

The third edition of "Goencho Saib" is available for sale at Varsha Book Stall in Panaji and at Remedian Vaz Newspaper Stall, Margao. It is priced at Rs. 200 only. It is also available on Amazon Kindle. 

For those interested in acquiring a physical copy, kindly contact Rajan Narayan via WhatsApp on +91 94223 86966.

By Steve Antao