Francis Xavier was born to a wealthy family in Spain on 7th April 1506. Francis Xavier entered the Collège de Sainte–Barbe, Paris in the year 1525. During his final year of college, he met Ignatius of Loyola who was 15 yrs older than Xavier and had a similar background, but had decided to pursue a spiritual life. It was Ignatius's influence and guidance that brought about a spiritual awakening in Francis Xavier that changed his life forever.
St Francis Xavier, The Patron Saint of Goa
Viva Sao Joao
‘Sao Joao’ is a Christian festival dedicated to St. John the Baptist. It is celebrated in Goa by the Christian community on 24th June every year with great enthusiasm. According to The Holy Bible, it is believed that the child, St John the Baptist leapt with joy in his mother Elizabeth’s womb when Mary, mother of Jesus came to visit her. This occasion is celebrated as the feast of St. John the Baptist. Many Goans jump into wells and ponds which represents Elizabeth’s womb.
