Sarva Dharma Samelan & Maadi Ceremony | Feast Novena Begins | St Francis Xavier Shrine

Today marked a blessed beginning to the Feast Novena of St Francis Xavier at Chandavar Shrine, starting with the traditional Maadi (flag) blessing and hoisting.

The morning began with a meaningful Sarva Dharma Samelan, highlighting unity among all faiths. The program included:
✨ Rev Fr Albert D’Silva
✨ Rev Fr Faustine Furtado
✨ Mohammad Yasin Bhiqba (Muslim community)
✨ Manjunath Chandavar (Hindu community)
✨ Rev Fr Wilson Pinto
✨ Sr Fatima
✨ PPC Secretary Saver Noronha

The event was beautifully hosted by Prathima Gonsalves, and the guests were introduced by Sanjuje Fernandes. All speakers shared inspiring words about Chandavar Shrine, its growing devotion, and the spirit of togetherness seen in the feast celebrations. The guests then lit the lamp to mark this special beginning.

This was followed by the Maadi blessing by Fr Albert D’Silva along with parish priest, after which the Maadi was solemnly hoisted.

The procession of the Relic of St Francis Xavier then took place through Christian Keri, with many devotees participating prayerfully. After the procession, the relic was placed back in the church.

The Novena Mass was celebrated by Fr Albert D’Silva together with Fr Faustine Furtado and Fr Wilson Pinto. On the day of Christ the King Feast and the First Day of Novena, Fr Albert delivered a meaningful sermon, reminding everyone of Christ’s kingship and St Francis Xavier’s powerful intercession. The choir added great devotion through their melodious singing.

After the Mass, the Novena of St Francis Xavier was led by Fr Faustine Furtado, and devotees approached the relic to receive blessings.

“Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you.”
— Matthew 7:7

📌 A grace-filled start to the feast days ahead.

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