Q. Consider the following statements:
1.St. Francis Xavier was one of the founding members of the Jesuit Order.
2.St. Francis Xavier died in Goa and a church is dedicated to him there.
3.The Feast of St. Francis Xavier is celebrated in Goa each year.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 1 and 3 only
d) 1, 2 and 3
Correct Answer: c) 1 and 3 only
Question from UPSC Prelims 2021 GS Paper
Explanation :
St. Francis Xavier
St. Francis Xavier was one of the founding members of the Jesuit Order. This statement is correct. St. Francis Xavier was indeed one of the founding members of the Society of Jesus, commonly known as the Jesuits, along with Ignatius of Loyola and others. The order was founded in 1540.
The Death and Memorial of St. Francis Xavier
While it is true that a church is dedicated to him in Goa, St. Francis Xavier did not die there. He died on Shangchuan Island, which is near the coast of China, on December 3, 1552. His body was later taken to Goa, where it is enshrined in the Basilica of Bom Jesus.
Celebrating the Feast of St. Francis Xavier in Goa
The feast of St. Francis Xavier is celebrated with great fervor in Goa each year, usually on December 3rd, which is the anniversary of his death. It is a significant event for the local Catholic community and attracts pilgrims from all over the world.