St. Francis Xavier, born on April 7, 1506, in the Kingdom of Navarre (present-day Spain), is one of the most renowned missionaries in Christian history. He was educated at the University of Paris, where he met Ignatius of Loyola and became one of the first members of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits)

Early Life and Education
Francis Xavier was born into a noble family at the Castle of Xavier in Navarre. As a young man, he showed great intellectual promise and was sent to study at the University of Paris. It was there that he encountered Ignatius of Loyola, whose vision and spiritual fervor deeply influenced him. Initially, Francis was more interested in academic success and personal ambition, but Ignatius's persistent encouragement led him to a life of deeper spiritual commitment.

Formation and Ordination
In 1534, Francis Xavier, along with Ignatius of Loyola and five other companions, took vows of poverty,  chastity, and obedience, including a vow to go to the Holy Land or to serve the Pope if that was not possible. This group became the nucleus of what would later be the Society of Jesus, commonly known as the Jesuits. Francis was ordained a priest in Venice, Italy, in 1537. Following his ordination, he spent time in Rome helping to establish the Jesuit order. His missionary zeal was evident, and he soon volunteered for a mission to the Portuguese colonies in the East.

Missionary Work and Visits to Goa
In 1541, Francis Xavier embarked on a missionary journey to Asia, beginning in India. He arrived in Goa, which was then a Portuguese colony, in 1542. Goa became the central base for his missionary activities. During his time in Goa, he dedicated himself to ministering to the local population, including the Portuguese settlers and the native Goans. He established several schools and churches, focusing on the education and in building faith of both children and adults. St. Francis Xavier's work in Goa was marked by his tireless efforts to improve the moral and spiritual
lives of the people. He was known for his compassion and his ability to connect with people from all walks of life. His success in Goa set the stage for his further missionary journeys across Asia.

Further Missionary Journeys
After catering to the Christian community in Goa, St. Francis Xavier expanded his mission to other regions. He traveled to the Malay Archipelago, where he preached to many about Christianity. In 1549, he embarked on a mission to Japan, where he spent two years laying the groundwork for future Christian missions. His work in Japan was pioneering, as he introduced Christianity to a country previously unfamiliar with the religion.

Death and Legacy
St. Francis Xavier's final missionary goal was to enter China, a country he believed held great potential for Christian faith. In 1552, he set out for China but fell ill while waiting on the island of Shangchuan, off the coast of Guangdong Province. Despite his illness, he remained committed to his mission, but he succumbed to fever on December 3, 1552. His death occurred in relative isolation, far from the Christian communities he had nurtured.
Initially buried on Shangchuan Island, his body was later moved to Malacca and then to Goa. Remarkably, his body was found to be incorrupt, which further fueled the veneration of the saint. Today, his relics are enshrined in the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa, where they attract countless
pilgrims and tourists

Canonization and Veneration
St. Francis Xavier was canonized by Pope Gregory XV on March 12, 1622, alongside his friend Ignatius of Loyola. He is celebrated as the patron saint of missionaries and is highly venerated not only in Goa but also around the world. His feast day is observed on December 3rd. The decennial Exposition of the Sacred Relics of St. Francis Xavier in Goa is a testament to his enduring legacy. This event draws millions of pilgrims and visitors who come to venerate the saint and participate in the religious ceremonies associated with the exposition.