Feast of St. Francis Xavier: Safety Advisory Issued for Old Goa Celebrations

The celebration of the Feast of St. Francis Xavier at Bom Jesus Basilica Church in Old Goa is scheduled to take place from November 25th to December 4th, 2023. Novenas will commence on November 25th, leading up to the annual feast on December 4th.

Anticipating a substantial turnout of people and devotees from various parts of the State and neighboring States during the feast, which involves world heritage monuments, particularly Bom Jesus Basilica Church in Old Goa, where devotees will form queues to seek darshan of the sacred relics of St. Francis Xavier, attend masses, and participate in religious ceremonies.

Considering the importance of ensuring safety and security for both visitors/devotees and the world heritage monuments, the following advisory is issued to the general public:

1. All visitors/devotees attending the Feast of St. Francis Xavier in Old Goa must carry a valid Identity Card/ID proof for access to the Churches.

2. It is advised not to carry bags, handbags, or additional luggage while visiting the Churches.

3. In the event of any visitor/devotee noticing a suspicious object/person or any unusual activity in the Church premises or its surroundings during the feast, an immediate report should be made to the Old Goa Police Station/Police Out Post on the premises of Bom Jesus Basilica Church, or by dialing 100/112 for prompt police action or assistance.