A Must Watch Film for Every Admirer of St. Francis Xavier

A newly released Konkani film, “The Candle Still Burns”, promises to deepen the experience of reverence and connection to this beloved saint known as "Goencho Saib." Created by Consua, Verna-based filmmaker Agnelo Fernandes, the film is a heartfelt portrayal of Xavier’s life, miracles, and enduring legacy. Through “The Candle Still Burns”, Agnelo honours the spirit of St. Francis Xavier in a work of devotion that aims to resonate not only with the Goan community, but also with audiences beyond, sharing Xavier’s message of service, resilience, and faith. 

Serving as a catechist for the past 25 years at his local parish, Agnelo’s in-depth knowledge of various topics related to the Catholic faith has driven him to produce many films with Catholic themes. After delivering “Paulam", a movie on the life of St. Joseph Vaz in 2011, he felt inspired to make a film on the life of St. Francis Xavier. 

Production of The Film 

Agnelo embarked on his journey of bringing St. Francis Xavier’s story to the screen in 2016. He started meticulously researching the saint's missionary work across the world, especially in Goa. His vision for the film grew with years of gathering material and creating an extensive narrative that could convey the impact of the saint’s work to the audiences. By 2018, he had composed lyrics for the film's soundtrack. Unfortunately, in 2020, the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic brought the production of the movie to a standstill. Due to this, some of the initial cast members of the film backed out of the project. However, in 2022, with a renewed sense of purpose and determination, Agnelo resumed work on the project and successfully wrapped up the shooting and editing of the film in October 2024. 

Release 

“The Candle Still Burns” was released at the Verna Church Hall on October 22, 2024, in a ceremony led by Auxiliary Bishop Rev. Simiao Purificacao Fernandes and Fr. Patricio Fernandes, Rector of the Basilica of Bom Jesus. Agnelo’s production company, Manfil Productions, aims to use the film as a medium to educate audiences, especially children and youngsters, about St. Francis Xavier’s dedication, struggle, and triumphs. Agnelo’s goal with “The Candle Still Burns” was to reach a diverse audience. To this end, the film has an English title, though the dialogue is in Konkani, with English subtitles provided to ensure accessibility for viewers worldwide.  

Cast and Crew 

For the film, Agnelo selected many artistes from villages like Cortalim, Verna, Consua, Margao, and other nearby areas. The film stars Brijesh Kakodkar playing the lead role of St. Francis Xavier. The roles of St. Ignatius of Loyola and Peter Faber, the two roommates of Xavier during his time at university, are portrayed by Fr Melito D’Souza and Fr Mario Noronha respectively.  

Brijesh Kakodker, who portrays St. Francis Xavier in the film, brings his unique perspective and personal admiration for the saint to the role. Brijesh, who initially expected to be given a small role in the film, was thrilled to be cast as Xavier himself. Having attended a retreat at the Basilica of Bom Jesus as a young student, Brijesh had an early exposure to Xavier's teachings, which he found invaluable for his preparation for the film. He immersed himself in the role with additional reading material about the life of St. Xavier. He noted that the first time he donned the priest’s robe, he felt an almost mystical connection to the character, sensing a spiritual transformation that guided him through the challenging scenes of the film. 

Brijesh also reflected on the physical and emotional demands of portraying Xavier’s ceaseless energy and commitment. Xavier, known for his agility and vigorous spirit, was a man constantly on the move. Brijesh recalls how donning the priest's robe to perform physically demanding scenes—like balancing on a boat or running during a chase sequence—was physically taxing, yet profoundly humbling. Doing these scenes provided him with a closer understanding of the saint's trials and triumphs. Brijesh's reverence for Xavier only deepened through this portrayal, especially recognizing how Xavier left behind a life of wealth to dedicate himself entirely to the service of humankind. 

Soundtrack 

The film’s soundtrack, comprising 13 original songs, was composed by Agnelo Fernandes, with musical arrangements by Fr. Peter Cardozo and Pravin Naik. In a nod to Xavier’s global reach, one song is performed in Hindi, Tamil, and Malayalam, while another adoration hymn is sung in Japanese. This multilingual approach broadens the film’s spiritual inclusivity, symbolizing Xavier’s mission to reach hearts across cultural boundaries. 

As Goa opens its doors to pilgrims and visitors for the exposition of St. Francis Xavier's relics, “The Candle Still Burns” stands as a powerful artistic tribute to a saint who continues to inspire devotion and admiration. Agnelo Fernandes’ film does more than recount Xavier’s life; it invites viewers to reflect on the values of humility, resilience, and faith that Xavier exemplified. For the Goan community and all who revere St. Francis Xavier, this film serves as a timely and moving reminder that the saint’s legacy burns on, illuminating hearts across generations and faiths. 

By Steve Antao