Francis Xavier, born Francisco de Jasso y Azpilicueta in the ancient Kingdom of Navarre on 7 April 1506, stands as one of the most significant figures in the history of Catholic missions. Venerated today as Saint Francis Xavier, he was not only a pioneering Navarrese Catholic missionary but also a pivotal co-founder of the influential Society of Jesus, a religious order that would profoundly shape global evangelization.

The Enduring Legacy of Saint Francis Xavier

Early Life and the Birth of the Jesuits

Hailing from the castle town of Javier (known as Xavier in Old Spanish and Navarro-Aragonese, or Xabier in Basque, meaning "new house") within what is now present-day Spain, Francis Xavier embarked on an intellectual journey that led him to the University of Paris. It was there that his life took a momentous turn when he encountered Ignatius of Loyola, another transformative figure. Together, with five other companions, they formed the foundational core of what would become the Society of Jesus. On a solemn day in 1534, at Montmartre in Paris, these seven men, including Francis, took vows of poverty and chastity, laying the groundwork for the Jesuit order, which would soon become a formidable force in education, scholarship, and missionary work across the globe.

Pioneering Missions in Asia

Francis Xavier's zeal for spreading Christianity led him on an extraordinary and extensive mission into Asia, primarily operating within the vast territories of the then-flourishing Portuguese Empire. His evangelization efforts were particularly impactful in India, where he arrived in Goa in 1542, then the bustling capital of Portuguese India. He immersed himself in the local communities, ardently ministering to the sick, teaching catechism, and baptizing thousands. While some historical accounts have mistakenly suggested his direct role in proposing the infamous Goa Inquisition, a closer look at his correspondence reveals a different plea. In a letter to King John III of Portugal, Francis Xavier earnestly requested the appointment of a special minister whose sole purpose would be to diligently further the cause of Christianity in Goa, striving to purify morals and deepen faith among the populace. This was distinct from advocating for the establishment of the punitive and often brutal measures characteristic of the Inquisition.

His missionary journeys did not stop at India's shores. Driven by an unyielding spirit, Francis Xavier became the very first Christian missionary to venture into distant lands like Japan, Borneo, the Maluku Islands (often referred to as the Spice Islands), and other remote areas of Southeast Asia. These missions, however, presented formidable challenges. He tirelessly struggled to learn the nuanced local languages and customs, often facing significant cultural and religious opposition. Consequently, his successes in these regions, while notable for their pioneering spirit, were often less widespread and immediate compared to the fervent embrace he had experienced in parts of India. His ambitious vision to extend his evangelical preaching even further, into the vast and then largely unreached empire of China, was tragically cut short when he succumbed to illness on Shangchuan Island, just off the Chinese coast, on 3 December 1552.

Apostle and Patron Saint

The Catholic Church swiftly recognized Francis Xavier's profound contributions and unwavering dedication. He was beatified by Pope Paul V on 25 October 1619, a crucial step towards sainthood, and subsequently canonized by Pope Gregory XV on 12 March 1622, officially declaring him a saint. His importance was further underscored in 1624 when he was made co-patron of Navarre, his homeland. Throughout history, he has been affectionately known by evocative titles such as the "Apostle of the Indies" and the "Apostle of Japan," reflecting the immense scope of his missionary endeavors. Many consider him one of the greatest missionaries to have graced Christianity since the time of Paul the Apostle himself. In a significant decree titled "Apostolicorum in Missionibus," issued in 1927, Pope Pius XI formally designated Francis Xavier, alongside Thérèse of Lisieux, as co-patron of all foreign missions, solidifying his universal importance. Today, he remains a revered co-patron saint of Navarre, sharing this honor with Saint Fermin. In his native Navarre, his death anniversary, 3 December, is commemorated annually as the Day of Navarre, a poignant tribute to his enduring legacy.

Old Goa: A Glimpse into a Storied Past

Nestled on the picturesque southern banks of the Mandovi River, within the Ilhas sub-district (now known as Tiswadi taluka) of North Goa in the vibrant Indian state of Goa, lies the historically significant city of Old Goa. Known affectionately in Konkani as Pornnem Gy or Adlem Gy, and to the Portuguese as Velha Goa, literally meaning 'Old Goa', this site once stood as the illustrious capital of the Portuguese Empire's vast eastern territories.

Founding and Portuguese Ascendancy

The origins of Old Goa trace back to the 15th century AD, when it was established by the Islamic rulers of the Bijapur Sultanate, who recognized its strategic importance along the river. However, its true transformation into a global hub began after the Portuguese conquest of Goa in 1510, led by the renowned admiral Afonso de Albuquerque. From the 16th century onwards, Old Goa flourished as the administrative and commercial epicenter of Portuguese India, governing diverse territories that included distant outposts like Bom Baim (present-day Mumbai) and Cochin. This period marked a spectacular era of growth and architectural splendor, as the Portuguese built grand churches, convents, and civic buildings, many of which still stand as magnificent ruins or restored monuments today.

The Golden Age and Decline

At its zenith, under Portuguese rule, Old Goa was a bustling metropolis, often compared in grandeur to Lisbon itself. It is said to have harbored a population approaching 200,000, a remarkable figure for the era. The city served as the undisputed nerve center for the lucrative spice trade, a vital lifeline connecting Europe with the rich resources of the Portuguese East Indies. Ships laden with exotic spices, precious textiles, and other valuable commodities departed from its vibrant port, fueling the Portuguese economy and shaping global trade routes. However, this golden age was tragically cut short. In the 18th century AD, a series of devastating epidemics, particularly recurrent outbreaks of the plague, ravaged the city. The relentless spread of disease led to a catastrophic decline in population and rendered the city increasingly uninhabitable. Faced with insurmountable health crises, the Portuguese administration was compelled to abandon Old Goa, gradually shifting its capital functions to the nearby, healthier site of Panjim (Portuguese: Nova Goa, literally 'New Goa'), which lies approximately 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) to the east.

A World Heritage Site

Though much of its former glory now lies in ruins, the enduring architectural remnants of Old Goa stand as powerful testaments to its rich and complex history. Recognizing its outstanding universal value, UNESCO declared the remains of Old Goa a World Heritage Site, safeguarding its unique blend of Indian and European cultural influences for future generations. Visitors today can wander through its ancient streets, explore the majestically preserved churches like the Basilica of Bom Jesus, which enshrines the relics of Saint Francis Xavier, and the imposing Se Cathedral, marveling at the echoes of a once-vibrant imperial capital.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who was Saint Francis Xavier?

Saint Francis Xavier was a prominent Navarrese Catholic missionary and a co-founder of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits). Born in 1506, he became one of the most influential missionaries in history, renowned for his extensive evangelization efforts in Asia, particularly in India and Japan.

What was Saint Francis Xavier's connection to the Society of Jesus?

He was one of the first seven companions, alongside Ignatius of Loyola, who took vows of poverty and and chastity in Paris in 1534, marking the foundational moment for the Society of Jesus, or the Jesuit order.

Where did Saint Francis Xavier conduct his missions?

His primary missionary work took him across Asia, mainly within the Portuguese Empire. He was highly active in India (especially Goa), and was the first Christian missionary to Japan, Borneo, the Maluku Islands, and other regions.

Did Saint Francis Xavier propose the Goa Inquisition?

No, this is a common misconception. While he was deeply concerned about the state of Christianity in Goa, his letters to the King of Portugal, John III, show he requested a "special minister" to further Christian faith and morals, which was distinct from advocating for the establishment of the punitive Goa Inquisition.

Why is Saint Francis Xavier called the "Apostle of the Indies" and "Apostle of Japan"?

These titles reflect the vast geographical scope and profound impact of his missionary endeavors in the Indian subcontinent and Japan, where he introduced and extensively spread Christianity during the 16th century.

What is the significance of Old Goa?

Old Goa, or Velha Goa, was the capital of Portuguese India from the 16th to the 18th century. It was a major global hub for the spice trade and a vibrant metropolis before being abandoned due to plague. Its architectural remnants are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, representing a unique blend of cultures.

When was Old Goa established and by whom?

Old Goa was initially established in the 15th century AD by the Bijapur Sultanate, before it was conquered by the Portuguese in 1510 and subsequently became their capital in the East.

Why was Old Goa abandoned?

The city was abandoned in the 18th century AD primarily due to severe outbreaks of the plague and other epidemics, which decimated its population and made it unsustainable as a major administrative center. The capital then shifted to Panjim (Nova Goa).

What can visitors see in Old Goa today?

Today, visitors to Old Goa can explore its remarkably preserved churches, convents, and cathedrals, including the Basilica of Bom Jesus (which houses the relics of Saint Francis Xavier) and the Se Cathedral, offering a glimpse into its colonial past and UNESCO World Heritage status.