Saint Joseph Vaz's Mission in Canara: Bridging Divides and Spreading the Faith

Saint Joseph Vaz, a Catholic missionary from Goa, is celebrated for his tireless efforts in spreading the faith among communities in South India and Sri Lanka. One of the most significant chapters in his life as a missionary unfolded in Canara (present-day Karnataka), where he worked from 1681 to 1684. His time in this region was marked by significant contributions to the local Catholic community, the resolution of ecclesiastical conflicts, and his steadfast commitment to missionary work, even in the face of immense challenges.

Arrival in Canara

In 1681, Vaz's desire to serve as a missionary in Ceylon was redirected when he was appointed the Vicar Forane of Canara by the Padroado authorities in Goa. The Padroado was a system through which the Portuguese monarchy controlled church appointments in their overseas territories, particularly in Asia. However, the Padroado’s authority was being contested by the Sacred Congregation of Propaganda Fide, a Vatican agency responsible for global missionary work. The conflict between these two powers was particularly intense in Canara, where both factions had divided the local Catholic population.

At the center of the conflict was Bishop Thomas de Castro, appointed Vicar Forane of Canara by Pope Clement X in 1675. The Padroado authorities in Goa, refused to acknowledge De Castro's authority, causing a division among the local Catholic faithful. Supporters of the Padroado were excommunicated by Bishop De Castro. At the same time, those loyal to the Propaganda Fide faced excommunication from the Goa-based church leadership. This ecclesiastical strife caused significant disunity and confusion among the people, with Catholics questioning the legitimacy of the church and its sacraments.

Saint Joseph Vaz, sent to Canara to assert the Padroado’s jurisdiction, arrived amidst all this turmoil. Seeking a peaceful resolution to the conflict, he met with Bishop De Castro in Mangalore. After carefully reviewing the documents supporting De Castro's appointment, Vaz recognized the legitimacy of the bishop's authority, even as he continued to adhere to the Padroado system. Vaz worked to bring about a truce between the two factions, urging both sides to wait for a final ruling from the newly appointed Pope Innocent XI. In this way, Saint Joseph Vaz managed to alleviate the tensions that had divided the local Catholic community in the region.

Missionary Work in Canara

During his three-year stay in Canara, Saint Joseph Vaz focused on rebuilding and revitalizing the Catholic community there. He carried out extensive missionary work across Mangalore, Coondapur, Basroor, Barcoor, Moolki, Kallianpur, and surrounding areas. Vaz's efforts helped rekindle the faith of the scattered and often isolated Catholic communities in the region.

One of his significant accomplishments was the reconstruction of the Rosario Cathedral in Mangalore, a crucial center for the Catholic faith. He also built new churches in areas such as Onore, Basroor, Cundapore, and Gangolim, strengthening the physical infrastructure of the Church in Canara. His efforts were not limited to religious buildings; he also established small schools, encouraging education and the spiritual growth of the local population.

In a bid to address the shortage of priests in certain areas of Canara, Vaz established several Irmidades (Confraternities). These groups gathered local Catholics in areas without churches or resident priests, enabling them to recite prayers and celebrate religious occasions. This initiative was crucial in maintaining religious fervor and community spirit, especially in remote areas.

Miracles and Legacy

Vaz’s contributions to the community were not limited to his organizational efforts; he also acquired a reputation for performing miracles, which further enhanced his saintly image. A local legend recounts an incident near Mudipu, Bantwal, where Vaz was nearly killed by a group of conspirators. As the conspirators attempted to harm him, Vaz knelt down and struck his staff into the ground. Then, a miraculous light shone, causing water to gush forth from the spot where he knelt. Seeing this, the attackers got frightened and fled from the area, leaving Saint Joseph Vaz unharmed. This miracle led to the construction of a shrine at the site where the miracle occurred. The shrine attracts thousands of pilgrims every year, who come to seek blessings and healing.

Conclusion

Saint Joseph Vaz’s work in Canara was marked by his diplomatic acumen, devotion to the Catholic faith, and deep love for the people he served. He navigated a turbulent ecclesiastical environment, fostered unity among divided communities, and laid the foundation for future missionary activities in the region. His legacy continues to inspire Catholics in Canara and beyond, as his example of humility, service, and commitment to the gospel remains a shining beacon of faith.

By Steve Antao