St Elizabeth of Portugal Church in Ucassaim is the parish church of the village and one of the most elegant churches in Bardez. It stands among green fields and has a strong Franciscan history, a rebuilt church from the early eighteenth century and a lively local parish life.
Basic profile
- Location: Ucassaim, Bardez taluka, North Goa, India 403507.
- Dedication: St Elizabeth of Portugal.
- Portuguese name: Santa Isabel de Portugal Igreja em Ucassaim, Goa.
- Popular name: The Ucassaim Church.
- Parish size: Around 1,900 Catholics.
History
The foundation of the church was laid by the Franciscans between 1618 and 1628. The building was completed in 1628 with support from the comunidades of Ucassaim, Bastora, Punola and Paliem, along with other private donors.
In the early eighteenth century a cyclone destroyed the church. It was rebuilt and enlarged in 1708, and the present church building dates from that reconstruction.
Patron and devotion
The church is dedicated to St Elizabeth of Portugal, a queen remembered for her charity, peace-making and devotion to the poor. In Ucassaim, her name is part of the parish’s identity and devotion.
The parish is known for a strong local tradition around her feast, even though the feast falls in the rainy season and is often adjusted to suit village life.
Feast and parish life
The main feast of the parish is on the first Sunday of July. In some years the parish also celebrates related village festivities later in the season, but the first Sunday of July is the feast day most closely associated with the church.
Because the feast falls during the monsoon, the parish has long had its own local customs and practical arrangements, which have become part of the church’s character.
Church building
The church is built in Mannerist style with Rococo features. It is one of the more graceful parish churches in Goa, with a calm presence among the fields and village lanes of Ucassaim.
The rebuilt church from 1708 still stands strong, showing the resilience of the parish community and the care given to the building over time.
Parish life
The parish is served by the Salesians and the Congregation of the Poor Sisters of Our Lady. Their presence supports the church’s pastoral, educational and social work.
The parish has several wards and an active lay community that takes part in church activities throughout the year.
Chapels
The parish includes Holy Cross Chapel in St Anthony’s Ward, which is part of its wider pastoral reach.
Address
- Address: St Elizabeth of Portugal Church, Ucassaim, Mapusa, Goa 403507.
Present significance
Today, St Elizabeth of Portugal Church at Ucassaim remains a living parish church with a proud history and a peaceful setting. Its Franciscan origin, 1708 rebuilding and July feast make it one of the notable churches in Bardez.