Saint Francis Xavier Novena Commences with POMP AND RELIGIOUS FERVOUR

Old Goa, November 23, 2025 – The Novena and Feast of St. Francis Xavier kicked off yesterday evening at 6:00 pm with a solemn Mass at the Basilica of Bom Jesus, followed by the traditional Maddi. The nine-day novena will continue until December 3, culminating in the grand feast day celebrations.

Thousands of devotees, including people from other faiths, are expected to attend the novena services, paying homage to St. Francis Xavier, the Patron of Goa. The mass timings are as follows:

– Morning Masses: 6:00 am, 7:15 am, 8:15 am, 9:30 am, and 11:00 am

– Evening Masses: 3:30 pm, 5:00 pm, and 6:15 pm (English)On the feast day, December 3, masses will begin at 3:45 am, with the Solemn Feast High Mass at 10:30 am.

“We have made better arrangements for pilgrims in the coming days for the Old Goa novena,” said Rector of Basilica of Bom Jesus, Fr Patricio Pinto,

St. Francis Xavier, known for his zeal and missionary work, is revered for spreading Christianity to Asia, particularly in India, Japan, and the Malay Archipelago. His legacy continues to inspire millions, making the novena a significant event in the Catholic calendar.