Hindus Offend Catholics: They Put in Doubt Authenticity of Saint Francis Xavier’s Remains
Controversy Surrounding Hindus Offend Catholics: They Put in Doubt Authenticity of Saint Francis Xavier’s Remains Saint Francis Xavier’s Relics in Goa
Table of Contents
Hindus Offend Catholics – Introduction
Goa is bracing to host for the second time in less than a decade, an event of national import – the Exposition of Saint Francis Xavier’s relics at the end 2024 but its dreaded storm chaser has been whetted by strikingly seditious outpouring from Subhash Velingkar on December 10. Velingkar’s remarks have kicked up a political row and evoked sharp criticism from the Catholic community in Goa.
Claims and controversial Statements
Claims and Controversial Statements
Subhash Velingkar suggested on October 2,2024 during the public meeting that some kind of DNA testing be undertaken to establish whether these were indeed original relics. He clarified that the remains are not of Saint Francis Xavier and were of a Buddhist monk from Sri Lanka instead. Besides this, Velingkar started asking for the removal of Saint Francis as Protector/Goencho Saib from Goa and Parshuram [Hindu mythological creature] instead.
Catholic Community Response
Reaction of the Catholic Community
The CATHOLIC community of Goa was up in arms over the statements made by Velingkar which lead to more than twelve complaints being filed. These complaints, filed against Singh for “outraging religious sentiments” & “insulting beliefs,” are punishable under the Indian Penal Code. Protests were held by the public urging for his arrest before Exposition of the relics as per schedule. The Archdiocese of the Goa Council for Social Justice and Peace (CSJP) also came down heavily on Velingkar’s remarks, denouncing them as “offensive and unacceptable.”
The Solemn Exposition: A High Spiritual Occasion
The Solemn Exposition: A Sacred Event
A revered religious event, with pilgrims in the tens of thousands from around the world traveling to see what is specifically known as The Solemn Exposition of Saint Francis Xavier’s relics; which takes place once every ten years. Exposition 18 is planned to be held from November 21,2024-January5,2025. Devotees will have a chance to see the remains of Jesuit Saint as they are brought in solemn procession at Cathedral of Sé and Basilica Good Jesus.
However, the image of St Francis Xavier attached to this body since 1554 in Goa has been a signifier for many (in India at least) devotional practices surrounding personal and collective suffering. Considered to show holiness, relics of his remarkable preservation remain with many.
To maintain Harmony in Conflict
Maintaining Harmony Amidst Controversy
The Catholic community continues to reaffirm the authenticity of the relics and calls for them to remain in Goa as no less than Saint Francis Xavier is a significant part of religious life. The CSJP has appealed to the government to legally ensure that no attempt was made at creating a communal divide. The row has served only to underline the Saint’s enduring popularity — not just among Catholics, but believers of other religions who travel from afar for his miracles and blessings.
The games and the meaning of Goa protect their rich treasure
South -west coast of India-Goa – is famous for its secularism, as people from different religious communities live peacefully with each other. These comments by Velingkar have enraged the society that boasts of its diversity. With the Exposition a day away, if it comes off without violence and with respect for everyone’s beliefs. Even today, millions across the world draw hope and faith from Saint Francis Xavier as he stands tall with his legacy being kept alive to be an essential part of spiritual heritage in Goa.
FAQs
What Subhash Velingkar said about Saint Francis Xavier’s relics?
Subhash Velingkar maintained that relics believed to be those of St Francis Xavier actually belong to a Buddhist priest from Sri Lanka. He also recommended verifying their genuineness via a DNA test.
How much did the Catholic community in Goa actually oppose Velingkar’s remarks?
The move was flayed by the Catholic community in Goa. It has led to a drastic spate of over twelve complaints being filed against Velingkar for insulting religious sentiments. When the relics go on display at Exposition of the holy shroud, there will be protests demanding authorities arrest him.
Q) What is Solemn Exposition of the relics of Saint Francis Xavier?
Blessed Sacrament the Solemn Exposition of blessed sacrament in goa Every ten years, pilgrims from around the globe gather to conduct religious practice at Goa. The dates for the 2024 event will run from November 21, 2024 until January5.
Why are the relics of St. Francis Xavier significant?
For centuries, the consistent state of preservation has led to great devotion toward relics of Saint Francis Xavier. And to many of the uncorrupted, it is a sure sign that they are rightly honored as Saints.
Why Saint Francis Xavier is Important in Goa?
Saint Francis Xavier is the Patron of Goa (Goencho Saib) and revered by both, Catholics as well as people from other religions. His relics that are considered to bring hope and miracles is highly revered in the spiritual as well as socio-cultural realm of Goa.
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