St Francis Xavier Church in Pirna is the parish church of the village and one of the smaller parish churches in the Colvale area. It has a long village history, a modest Catholic community and a strong devotion to St Francis Xavier.
Basic profile
- Location: Pirna, Colvale post, Bardez taluka, North Goa, India 403513.
- Dedication: St Francis Xavier.
- Portuguese name: Sao Francisco Xavier Igreja em Pirna, Goa.
- Popular name: The Pirna Church.
- Parish size: Around 110 Catholics.
History
Christianity took root in Pirna in the sixteenth century. The church was previously part of the parish of Tivim and was later affiliated to Revora in 1653.
The original chapel of St Francis Xavier was opened to the faithful on 8 February 1792. It was rebuilt in 1845 and later raised to parish level on 12 September 1962.
An extensive renovation of the church took place in 2003, which gave the parish a renewed building while keeping its older identity.
Parish life
The parish is small but active. It is cared for by the Capuchin Fathers based at Revora and by the Maria Bambina Sisters, who are based at Gerosa Convent in Pirna.
The parish also has a social welfare presence through the Gerosa Convent Dispensary, which serves the local community.
Feast and devotion
The parish feast of St Francis Xavier is celebrated on 3 December every year. It is the main feast of the parish and the central religious celebration for the village.
The parish life also includes regular Masses and novenas, with the church remaining closely linked to devotion to St Francis Xavier throughout the year.
Church building
The present church is the result of several stages of rebuilding and renovation. It stands as a small village parish church with a straightforward character and a strong devotional atmosphere.
Because the parish is small, the church remains closely tied to the daily life of its few Catholic families and the surrounding area.
Address
- Address: St Francis Xavier Church, Pirna, Colvale P.O., Goa 403513.
Present significance
Today, St Francis Xavier Church at Pirna remains a living parish with a small but steady Catholic community. Its 1792 chapel origin, 1962 parish status and 2003 renovation make it an important church in the Colvale area.