The Miraculous Shower: A Turning Point in Saint Joseph Vaz’s Mission in Ceylon

St. Joseph Vaz, the first Catholic saint from Goa, is deeply revered by the faithful in his home state as well as in Ceylon (modern-day Sri Lanka). His unwavering dedication helped preserve the Catholic faith in Ceylon during times of intense persecution

A miraculous event which occurred during his time in Ceylon stands out as a testament to his unwavering faith and the transformative power of divine intervention. This remarkable incident occurred in Kandy, a region stricken by a prolonged drought, where traditional ceremonies for rain had failed to yield results. It was a moment that not only bolstered the faith of local Christians but also left an indelible mark on the hearts of many non-Christians in the area.

At the height of the drought, the ruler of Kandy King Vimaladharma Surya, desperate for relief, invited Joseph Vaz to pray for rain. While the invitation appeared to be a request for help, it was also a subtle challenge to test his faith and powers of intercession with God. Vaz, a man of profound humility and unshakable faith, accepted the challenge on the condition that the king and his court approach the matter with faith and recognize the glory of God.

With deep conviction, Vaz set up an altar in the public square opposite the royal palace. He placed a cross upon the altar and knelt in prayer, imploring God to demonstrate His power and mercy. What followed was nothing short of miraculous.

As Vaz prayed, rain began to fall in abundance, bringing much-needed relief to the parched land. Yet, in a truly astonishing display, not a single drop fell on Vaz himself or the altar where he prayed. This extraordinary occurrence was seen by many as a divine sign.

The miracle marked a turning point not only in Vaz’s ministry but also in his relationship with the king. Deeply moved by what he had witnessed, King Vimaladharma Surya granted Joseph Vaz privileges unprecedented for a foreign missionary. Vaz was given the freedom to preach anywhere within the kingdom and even beyond its borders, in Dutch-occupied territories, which were typically hostile to Catholic missionaries.

This miraculous event revitalized the Christian community in Kandy and inspired many conversions among the local population. For the faithful, it was a reaffirmation of their beliefs; for others, it served as an invitation to explore the message of Christianity. It not only solidified Saint Joseph Vaz’s mission in Ceylon but also left a legacy of hope and inspiration that continues to resonate within the hearts of believers to this day.

By Steve Antao