Mother of God Church in Pomburpa is one of the oldest parish churches in Bardez. It has a deep Franciscan history, a strong village following and a feast that still draws people together every February.
Basic profile
- Location: Pomburpa, Bardez taluka, North Goa, India 403523.
- Dedication: Our Lady, Mother of God.
- Portuguese name: Mae de Deus Igreja em Pomburpa, Goa.
- Popular name: The Pomburpa Church.
- Parish size: Around 1,120 Catholics.
History
The church was founded in 1590 by Luisa da Madre de Deus and her mother Ana de Santa Maria, both Franciscan tertiaries. Later, on 11 June 1604, they donated the church property to the Franciscans.
The church has a long history of additions and repair. Parts such as the verandah and front rooms facing the river were added later, and the building grew into a more complete parish church over time.
Patron and meaning
The church is dedicated to Our Lady, Mother of God, a title that has been especially loved in Goan Catholic tradition. In Pomburpa, the church is also known in Portuguese as Mae de Deus, and many villagers still use that name.
The title reflects a Marian devotion that goes back to the earliest Franciscan period in Bardez and has remained central to the parish ever since.
Feast and parish life
The parish feast is celebrated on 2 February, the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord and the traditional day of Our Lady of Candelaria or Candlemas. This is the great day of the parish year.
In Pomburpa, the feast has long been marked by Masses, candle blessing and village gatherings. It remains one of the best-known annual celebrations in northern Goa.
Architecture and setting
The church is known for its Mannerist Neo-Roman character. It stands in a quiet river-facing setting and is one of the older churches in Bardez that still preserves the feel of an older Goan parish.
The parish also has a strong link with St Elizabeth’s Convent in Pomburpa, where the Franciscan Missionaries of Christ the King are based.
Address
- Address: Mother of God Church, Pomburpa, Carona, Bardez, Goa 403523.
Present significance
Today, Mother of God Church at Pomburpa remains a living parish church with a long memory and a strong local identity. Its 16th-century foundation, February feast and Franciscan roots make it one of the historic churches of Bardez.