Cardinal Tagle Urges Faithful to Embrace St. Francis Xavier’s Missionary Zeal During Feast Mass

Old Goa, December 3, 2024: Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle called on the faithful to follow the selfless missionary zeal and deep love for Christ exemplified by St. Francis Xavier during the Solemn Mass held at the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Goa on December 3, 2024. The Eucharistic celebration, which featured the exposition of the saint’s sacred relics, emphasized the theme, "We are messengers of the Good News." Cardinal Tagle, who presided over the mass, highlighted the importance of being authentic messengers of the Gospel in today’s world and urged the congregation to embody the message of God’s love with zeal and humility.

The solemn liturgy saw the participation of Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli, Apostolic Nuncio in India and Nepal, Archbishop Filipe Neri Ferrão of Goa, and a host of bishops and priests from various regions, who concelebrated the mass. In his homily, Cardinal Tagle recounted how St. Francis Xavier, initially skeptical of Ignatius of Loyola’s vision, became one of his first companions and a co-founder of the Society of Jesus. The cardinal praised St. Francis Xavier’s dedication to spreading the Gospel, noting his pastoral work in Goa, Malacca, and Japan, and his desire to evangelize China, a mission cut short by his death on the island of Shangchuan. "Just love, that is all that mattered. The message emboldened the messenger. The messenger embodied the message," said Cardinal Tagle, emphasizing that the essence of St. Francis Xavier’s mission was rooted in love for Jesus Christ, who loved him first.

Cardinal Tagle also discussed the essential qualities of a true messenger of the Good News. Drawing parallels with biblical figures like the angels, prophets, and apostles, he emphasized the humility and simplicity that should define those entrusted with delivering God's message. He also cautioned against false messengers driven by ambition, greed, or violence, warning that such figures bring disaster to society.

Further, the Cardinal spoke of the Good News as the message of God’s Kingdom, brought to fulfillment through Jesus Christ’s life, death, and resurrection. He declared, "The Good News is Jesus, the love of the Father who became human as our brother, offering His life for us all." Cardinal Tagle underscored that the Good News is a message of inclusivity, where God’s love, mercy, and compassion break down barriers, reaching all people regardless of their background.

The Eucharistic celebration was attended by numerous dignitaries, including the Governor of Goa Shri P.S. Sreedharan Pillai, Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, and other government officials. Thousands of pilgrims from across India, including Pune, Kolhapur, and Belgaum, participated in the Mass, many of whom traveled on foot to venerate the sacred relics of St. Francis Xavier.

By Br. Malvino Alfonso OCD