St Christopher Church in Tivim is one of the most important parish churches in Bardez. It has a long history, a large Catholic community and a feast that is still a major event in the parish year.
Basic profile
- Location: Tivim village, Bardez taluka, North Goa, India 403502.
- Dedication: St Christopher.
- Portuguese name: Sao Cristovao Igreja em Tivim, Goa.
- Popular name: The Tivim Church.
- Parish size: Around 4,000 Catholics.
History
The church was originally built in 1623 by the villagers of Tivim, Sirsaim and Assonora during Portuguese rule. The parish was later organised under the Franciscan Rectorate of Tivim in 1636.
When the Maratha invasion of Bardez took place in 1683, the church and presbytery were burnt down. They were rebuilt within two years, and the church continued to grow as the main church of the area.
The church was later renovated in 1720, and since 1766 it has been looked after by the diocesan clergy.
Parish life
The parish of Tivim covers a large and active Catholic community spread across many wards. It has long been one of the strongest parish centres in northern Goa.
The parish is also well known for devotion to Our Lady of Perpetual Succour, whose novenas are held every Wednesday and draw many faithful people.
Feast and devotion
The annual feast of St Christopher is celebrated on the last Sunday of July. It is the main feast of the parish and a major gathering for parishioners and visitors.
The church is also known for the blessing of motor vehicles and for its devotion to St Christopher as the patron saint of travellers.
Church building
The church is built in Mannerist style with Rococo features. It has three storeys and a curved frontispiece with a niche, giving it a distinctive old-Goa appearance.
Inside the church are well-known statues of St Michael, St Sebastian and St Thomas, along with a special altar dedicated to Our Lady of Perpetual Succour.
Parish life today
The church continues to be active through daily Masses, Wednesday novenas and parish events. It is also known for a lively parish priest and a strong youth presence.
The parish remains an important spiritual centre for Tivim and the surrounding villages.
Address
- Address: St Christopher Church, Tivim, Bardez, Goa 403502.
Present significance
Today, St Christopher Church at Tivim remains one of the key parish churches in Goa. Its 1623 foundation, large parish and lively devotion to St Christopher and Our Lady of Perpetual Succour make it a major landmark in Bardez.