The Decennial Exposition of the Sacred Relics of St. Francis Xavier was inaugurated on November 21, 2024, with a solemn Eucharistic celebration at the Se Cathedral in Goa.
The ceremony, presided over by Archbishop Anil Couto of Delhi, marked the beginning of a deeply spiritual event organized by the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman.
The exposition, which will run until January 5, 2025, aims to inspire faith and spiritual renewal among the faithful.
Archbishop Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão welcomed bishops, priests, government officials, pilgrims, and other attendees, calling for prayers that this event may enrich lives.
Archbishop Couto, in his homily themed “Sent forth to proclaim the Kingdom of God”, emphasized the significance of the exposition as a time for grace and transformation, inspired by the life of St. Francis Xavier.
He highlighted St. Xavier's tireless dedication to spreading the Gospel and the enduring fruits of his missionary work.
The Eucharistic celebration was concelebrated by nearly 600 priests, along with prominent church leaders such as Archbishop Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão, Bishop Theodore Mascarenhas, Bishop Visuvasam Selvaraj, and other bishops from various dioceses.
Apostolic representatives and leaders of religious orders were also present, adding to the significance of the occasion.
Archbishop Couto underscored the importance of repentance and faith as prerequisites for the Kingdom of God to flourish in one’s life.
He reminded the congregation that encountering Jesus transforms individuals into "salt of the earth" and "light of the world," encouraging them to lead others to faith.
As part of the event, the book "Stories in Silver – St. Francis Xavier”, authored by Pantaleao Fernandes, was launched.
The liturgy, animated by Fr. Candido Fernandes and commented on by Fr. Mariano D’Costa, included vibrant hymns led by Fr. Romeo Monteiro and other performers. Fr. Henry Falcao, the event's convener, extended gratitude to all contributors.
A grand procession carried the sacred relics of St. Francis Xavier from the Basilica of Bom Jesus to the Se Cathedral in a specially designed electric carriage.
Representatives from diocesan bodies, seminarians, and youth groups accompanied the relics, with 1,500 parish youth forming a human chain to honor the Saint. The relics were ceremoniously transferred to the Se Cathedral's altar by selected representatives.
Adding to the solemnity, a 100-member brass band, directed by Fr. Simon D’Cunha, President of the Diocesan Commission for Sacred Music, led the procession with traditional hymns.
Archbishop Couto concluded with an appeal for reflection and renewal, urging the faithful to draw inspiration from the life and mission of St. Francis Xavier.
The exposition serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring legacy of this missionary Saint, inviting all to deepen their faith and commitment to the Gospel.
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