St Francis Xavier Church in Querim is the parish church of the village and one of the quieter but historically important churches in North Goa. It began as a chapel and later became a parish church serving a small Catholic community.
Basic profile
- Location: Querim, Arambol, Pernem taluka, Goa 403524.
- Dedication: St Francis Xavier.
- Portuguese name: Sao Francisco Xavier Igreja em Querim, Goa.
- Popular name: The Querim Church.
- Parish size: Around 300 Catholics.
History
The church was originally a chapel built in 1933 and attached to the parish of Arambol. It was separated and made into a parish church by a provision dated 22 April 1952.
A new parochial residence was built in December 1999, which strengthened the parish’s facilities and pastoral life.
Parish life
The parish is served by the Congregation of the Religious of Jesus and Mary, who are based at the Convent of Jesus and Mary in Querim, Arambol. Their presence gives the parish its pastoral and community character.
Because the parish is small, church life is close-knit and strongly rooted in local devotion.
Feast and devotion
The feast of St Francis Xavier is celebrated on 3 December every year. It is the main feast of the parish and an important day for the local faithful.
Parish gatherings, prayer and feast celebrations remain the heart of the church’s yearly rhythm.
Church building
The church is a relatively recent parish church compared with many older Goan churches. Its chapel origin in 1933 and later parish status in 1952 reflect a steady growth in local religious life.
The 1999 residence added practical support to the parish and helped establish its present form.
Address
- Address: St Francis Xavier Church, Querim, Arambol, Goa 403524.
Present significance
Today, St Francis Xavier Church at Querim remains a living parish church with a modest but meaningful role in village life. Its 1933 chapel origin, 1952 parish status and 3 December feast define its place in the Pernem area.