A s one of the largest religious gatherings in this region, the decennial Exposition of the Sacred Relics of St
Francis Xavier interlinked with pilgrims’ deep devotion to him, generates interest among Church leaders, laity and other stakeholders.
The growing number of pilgrims at every Exposition indicates the increasing legion of devotees of the Spanish saint.
His work and message continue to be relevant, and he, an inspiration for them, despite the passage of more than four-and -a-half centuries after his death.
“This is an occasion for many pilgrims with great devotion to the saint to pay their respects to him, and for others with curiousity to know about him,” a
Church leader said.
More than 28 lakh pilgrims visited Old Goa during the last Exposition in 2004. Acording to estimates drawn by Church authorities, about 40-50 lakh devotees are expected for this Exposition.
The pilgrims flock to the former capital of the Portuguese from all over Goa, other parts of the country, and across the globe from
Japan to
Canada. Few groups even walk in on foot from far off places, such as Kolhapur and Belgaum.
Church authorities take cognizance of the opportunity of the Exposition revolving around one of the greatest missionaries to spark off the process of rejuvenation of faith.
“The pilgrimage is a spiritual experience and an opportunity for deepening of their and their faith commitment,”
the Church leader said.