Feast of St. Francis Xavier: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about Feast of St. Francis Xavier (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. Feast of St. Francis Xavier is observed on December 3rd.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of Feast of St. Francis Xavier, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as important facts you should know about Feast of St. Francis Xavier.

📅 What day is Feast of St. Francis Xavier 2024?

In 2024, Feast of St. Francis Xavier is on Sunday, December 3rd. It is the 1st Sunday in December; in 2024, it is Tuesday. There are until the next observance. You also can view all the exciting details and facts about December 3, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

The Feast of St. Francis Xavier, which takes place on December 3rd, is a special occasion that pays tribute to the devotion and service of St. Francis Xavier. He dedicated himself to spreading Christianity as a missionary in both Europe and Asia. Today, his preserved body is displayed in the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Goa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This sacred site holds great significance during the festival and attracts pilgrims from Goa and Christians worldwide. To truly experience the spirit of this feast, a visit to the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Goa is highly recommended.

📜 Feast of St. Francis Xavier History

The Society of Jesus, also called the Jesuits, was founded by Francis and Ignatius. They took vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience to the Pope. They planned to go to the Holy Land to convert non-believers. Francis unexpectedly became a prominent Christian missionary when he filled in for another chosen missionary who fell ill. Over the next 12 years, he led missions in various places, including Mozambique, Malacca, and Goa in the Portuguese Empire. He was the first Christian missionary to reach Japan, Borneo, and the Moluccas. Known as the Apostle of the Indies, Francis died in 1552 while preparing to sail to China for further missionary work. In 1622, Pope Gregory XV canonized Francis. His remains are preserved in a silver coffin at Goa’s Bom Jesus Basilica.

✅ Feast of St. Francis Xavier Facts

🔖 He died in China
He passed away from a severe illness while awaiting a boat to transport him to China.

🔖 The body is kept in a silver casket
The coffin displays depictions of the saint’s acts of healing and helping those who are sick and suffering.

🔖 13 months before he finally reached Goa
He swiftly departed from Rome and journeyed through Lisbon and various countries in Asia before finally reaching Goa.

👍 Why Is Feast of St. Francis Xavier Important

This is the day we remember his missionary work. Francis Xavier was a well-known Roman Catholic missionary. He had an important role in the expansion of Christianity in India, the Malay Archipelago, and Japan.

In the coastal state of Goa, the Feast of St. Francis Xavier is extensively commemorated. People will gather in Goa to see St. Francis Xavier’s relics at the Basilica of Bom Jesus.

Commemorating the day also allows us to remember all of the other saints who serve as the foundation of Christianity. It’s also an opportunity to send prayers to our departed family and friends.

🙂 How To Observe Feast of St. Francis Xavier

⚡ Pray together as a family

⚡ Read about his life
To gain a deeper understanding of St. Francis Xavier and the challenges he faced as a missionary, it is helpful to dive into his biography.

⚡ Visit a church or shrine dedicated to him
Say a family prayer for St. Francis Xavier. You can even host a modest feast for family and close friends.

📅 When is Feast of St. Francis Xavier?

Explore all 🔗 December holidays, including 🔗 Religious and other 🔗 Christian holidays.

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