from Lenny Barretto
Daijiworld Media Network - Goa (MB)
The Bom Jesus Basilica in Old Goa
Panaji, Sep 29: To commemorate St Francis Xavier's 500th birth anniversary, Bom Jesus Basilica director has decided to approach the government with a proposal to erect a life-size statue of the saint at Old Goa.
It has been a long pending demand of parishioners and public at large to have such a statue in honour of this great saint.
Fr Barretto said the decision to approach the government with this request emanated from sentiments and demands from various quarters for a befitting memorial to mark the 500th birth anniversary of St Francis Xavier.
"I too share similar sentiments; therefore, it will indeed be a joyous occasion for us all in Goa and outside, to have the statue of Goemcho Saib installed at a public place in Old Goa," Fr Barretto is quoted by a local newspaper as saying.
He informed that the site selected for the installation of the statue is on the main road at the four-road junction, as one approaches the Church complex from Panjim.
"The proposed plan in its initial stages is ready and I will approach the government with the plan at the earliest," said Fr Barretto.
"Since the plan is in its early stages, the modalities and other matters will be worked out at a convenient time," he added.
Born in Spain on April 7, 1506, St Francis Xavier arrived in Goa in 1542 and died on December 3, 1552 on the Sancian island on the way to China.
From Daijiworld's archives - Dec 13, 2006: