Exposition of Sacred relics of Saint Francis Xavier

The decennial exposition of the sacred relics of St. Francis Xavier has started in Goa. Over the next 45 days his mortal remains will be put on public display for veneration and to pay homage to the saint.

About Saint Francis Xavier

He was a Spanish Jesuit missionary and co-founder of the Society of Jesus
In 1542 he arrived in Goa under the orders of King John III of Portugal.
He was sent to revive Christianity among Portuguese settlers and convert locals.
He died in 1552 on Shangchuan Island, off the coast of China. Initially buried on the island, his body was later exhumed and brought to Goa in 1554.
Currently the relics of Francis Xavier are kept at the Basilica of Bom Jesus, Old Goa in a 400-year-old silver casket.
He is referred to as “Goencho Saib” (Lord of Goa) also he is the patron saint of Goa.
His work extended beyond Goa to other parts of Asia, including Japan and the Malacca region.