By Matters India Reporter
Panaji, April 1, 2026: Goa’s centuries-old Christian heritage came alive April 1 as The Goan newspaper unveiled Churches of Goa, a special edition the history and architectural splendor of 55 of the state’s most iconic churches.
Released by Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão of Goa, at the Bishop’s House in Panaji, the first volume of Churches of Goa blends vivid imagery with concise historical accounts, offering readers a journey through faith, culture, and time.
Cardinal Ferrão, who also serves as President of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India and the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences, praised the initiative as a significant contribution to preserving the region’s religious and cultural legacy.
“The Churches of Goa stand as enduring witnesses to the deep and vibrant history of the Christian faith in Goa. For centuries, these sacred spaces have been more than architectural monuments; they have been living centres of worship, prayer, service and community life,” he said.
Calling the book “a timely and valuable initiative,” Ferrão emphasized its role in encouraging Catholics in India and across Asia to document their own church histories.
“By providing a concise history of each Church and a commentary on its architectural beauty as well as on its conservation efforts over the years, the book highlights the rich spiritual and cultural heritage that forms an integral part of Goa’s identity,” he added.
The volume was released in the presence of Auxiliary Bishop Simião Purificação Fernandes, Father Joaquim Loiola Pereira, Jesuit Father Apolinario (Apollo) Cardozo — the author of the articles — and Joel Afonso, editor of The Goan.
Father Cardozo, based at the Bom Jesus Basilica Community in Old Goa, wrote the entries detailing the origins, architecture, and conservation of the churches, along with descriptions of altars and chapels.
Cardinal Ferrão commended the newspaper for its effort, noting, “By documenting the historical, architectural, and cultural significance of our Churches, this publication will contribute to a deeper appreciation of the heritage entrusted to us. It will undoubtedly serve as a valuable reference for historians, students, researchers and all who cherish the legacy of the Church in Goa.”
He concluded with a call to action: “May this volume encourage us to rediscover the spiritual richness embodied in our Churches and inspire us to preserve and cherish it with steadfast devotion.”
Journey through faith and architecture
Editor Afonso described the book as “a journey through heritage and faith,” underscoring the role of churches as landmarks in Goa’s cultural and spiritual landscape.
“These places of worship of the Catholic faith have seen an intersection of faith and heritage through generations, and their distinct characteristics, to a large extent, shaped the very identity of the Goan society,” he said.
Afonso highlighted the historical depth of the churches, many of which date back to the 16th and 17th centuries.
“Through the ages, some of these structures have been rebuilt and renovated, yet they still carry the enduring imprint of faith and remain a testament to the evolving path of the Christian life,” he noted.
He added that the book “offers short historical accounts of 55 churches throughout Goa, along with vibrant images, each one telling a different tale of the origin, devotion and the path of faith.”
The Goan’s project aims to inspire readers to explore and preserve these historic sites. “We hope that this book will inspire readers to explore the Churches of Goa, value them, and contribute to their preservation for future generations,” Afonso said.
The book is priced at ₹400 and will be available online and at leading bookshops across Goa. Future volumes will cover additional churches, continuing the effort to document the state’s extensive ecclesiastical heritage. For inquiries, readers can contact via WhatsApp at 9860597117.
With its blend of historical detail, architectural commentary, and vivid photography, Churches of Goa seeks to serve both as a scholarly resource and a cultural tribute.
As Cardinal Ferrão observed, the publication is not merely about preserving buildings but about safeguarding “the rich spiritual and cultural heritage that forms an integral part of Goa’s identity.”