- 11 May, 2026
Palolem, Goa, May 11, 2026: Along the sun-kissed shores of this coastal village, faith and tradition converged on May 10 as the local community commemorated three centuries of devotion to the Holy Cross, centred on a chapel that has long stood as a spiritual beacon for generations.
The annual feast of the Holy Cross Chapel unfolded with solemnity and festal joy, marked by the harmonious strains of brass bands, vibrant decorations, and the prayerful participation of villagers. The celebrations followed six days of novenas, during which families prepared the chapel with floral adornments and traditional arrangements, reflecting a deep-rooted culture of communal faith.
Children of the locality played a notable role in the festivities, lending their voices to the Eucharistic celebration after being trained by Assistant Parish Priest Fr. Ryan D’Souza. Their participation underscored the intergenerational continuity of devotion that defines the village’s spiritual life.
At the heart of this enduring tradition lies a cross believed to have been discovered over 300 years ago, when tidal waves carried it ashore. Recalling the oral history passed down through generations, local resident Natividade de Sa noted that villagers of all faiths — Catholics, Hindus, and others — came together in reverence to retrieve the cross, convinced of its extraordinary significance.
In earlier times, the cross was placed on a wall facing the sea, and local custom even included immersing it in the waters as a sign of remembrance. Fisherfolk later associated their abundant catches, first with traditional ‘Zallam’ nets and later with ‘Rampon’, with the protection and blessings of the Holy Cross.
Over time, this devotion transcended religious boundaries, becoming a shared cultural heritage. Many non-Catholic residents continue to offer tributes and contribute a portion of their earnings in gratitude for perceived blessings received through the intercession of the Cross.
The physical structure housing the cross has itself evolved through the decades. The first canopy was erected on land donated by Mohan Nagarsekar, while village elders such as Alcin da Silva, Paulu da Silva, Mauris Fernandes, and Socor de Melo played key roles in safeguarding the devotion. Later, Joao Afonso and Juze Fernandes contributed to developing the structure into a tiled shrine, which eventually grew into the present chapel.
Unlike many feasts aligned with the Church’s liturgical calendar, the people of Palolem faithfully observe this celebration each year on May 10, regardless of the day. Following the Eucharistic celebration, a traditional procession wound its way through the village streets, bearing witness to a custom preserved across generations.
The feast Mass was presided over by Fr. Socor Colaco, Parish Priest of St. Theresa of Avila Church. In his homily, he reflected on the varied nature of the crosses borne in human life — those arising from personal struggles, those imposed by others, and those permitted by the will of God.
Drawing from the biblical narrative of Job, he urged the faithful to remain steadfast amid suffering. “In my pain, I see His trouble,” he said, encouraging the congregation to carry their crosses with faith in Christ, while extending compassion to others in their trials.
The celebrations concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Larina, acknowledging the collective effort of the community in sustaining the feast.
As Goa continues to evolve amid modern influences, the Holy Cross Chapel at Palolem remains a powerful symbol of unity, gratitude, and enduring faith — a sacred legacy carried forward by the tides of history and the hearts of its people.
By Sr. Molly Fernandes SFN
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