Feast of Goencho Saib on Monday

The feast is normally celebrated on the 3rd of December but as the feast falls on Sunday this year it is celebrated a day later  because of Advent season. Catholic church does not celebrate feasts on Sundays during Advent. 

During the novenas, not only Goans flock to Old Goa but people from neighbouring states  too come and spend days at the basilica of Bom Jesus. Some pilgrims come walking from other parts of India, especially Maharashtra and Karnataka.

Goans  believe that no harm can come to Goa as long as the relics of the saint remain here. The theme for this year’s feast is: Like Saint Francis Xavier, the love of Christ urges us on.

The high mass on Monday will be celebrated by the bishop of Udupi Gerald Iasaac Lobo. The highlight of his year’s feast will be the launch of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal TV channel by Archbishop of Goa after the feast mass.

No feast in Goa is complete without the fair where grams and traditional Goan sweets are sold. Entertainment, including a giant wheel,  for children too is part of a Goan feast fair.

The Old Goa feast is also an opportunity for a family outing. On the feast day, families relax on the lawns in the complex.

If your vow is fulfilled, then it is time during the novenas or on the feast day to present a wax model to the saint for having fulfilled your plea. Goa police have provided elaborate security at the feast venue.