Lenten Customs In Goa | Explore Goa With Gt | Episode 7 | Gomantak Times

In the vibrant state of Goa, with its large Catholic population, festivals such as Christmas, New Year, and Easter are celebrated with immense enthusiasm and excitement. Easter, in particular, holds a special place in the hearts of Goan Catholics. But before the joyous Easter festivities begin, there is a 40-day penitential period known as Lent.

The Start of Lent: Ash Wednesday

Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, a day marked by special masses in churches across Goa. During these masses, priests solemnly apply ash on the foreheads of the faithful, uttering the words, "Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return." This act serves as a reminder of the temporary nature of human existence and the importance of self-reflection during the Lenten season.

Palm Sunday: Christ's Triumph Entry

The last week of Lent, known as Holy Week, starts with Palm Sunday. This day commemorates Christ's triumphant entry into Jerusalem. Palms are blessed in churches as a symbol of victory and are then distributed to the faithful. This marks the beginning of an eventful week leading up to Easter.

Maundy Thursday: An Evening of Solemnity and Service

Thursday in Holy Week is called Maundy Thursday. It is a day of great significance as it is believed to be the day of the Last Supper. On Maundy Thursday, churches hold special services where the highlight is the washing of the feet. This act of humility and service is a reenactment of Jesus washing the feet of his disciples. Additionally, the institution of priesthood is honored on this day.

In recent years, Goa has also embraced the tradition of distributing Hot Cross Buns after the Mass on Maundy Thursday. This delicious treat adds a touch of sweetness to the solemnity of the occasion.

The Crucifixion: Good Friday

Good Friday is undoubtedly the most important day in Christianity as it commemorates the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ. In Goa, this day is observed with great reverence and solemnity. Special services are held in churches around 3 pm, corresponding to the time when Jesus took his last breath on the cross.

During this time, all the statues on the church altars are covered, preferably with purple cloth, the color associated with the Lenten season. It is a day of fasting for the Catholic community, and they abstain from meat and rich food. Instead, their meals consist of simple and light options.

Holy Saturday: The Vigil of Hope

The day after Good Friday is called Holy Saturday. On this night, an Easter Vigil takes place, followed by the celebration of Easter masses in churches throughout the state. The Easter Vigil is a solemn and expectant time where the faithful gather to commemorate Jesus' time in the tomb and anticipate his resurrection.

Easter Sunday: The Resurrection Celebration

Easter Sunday marks the glorious resurrection of Jesus from the dead and holds tremendous significance for Goan Catholics. It is a day of joy, feasting, and celebration. The faithful gather in churches across the state to attend Easter masses, rejoicing in the triumph of life over death.

Conclusion

The Lenten practices followed by the Catholic community in Goa add a profound sense of spirituality and reflection to the Easter season. From the somber observances of Ash Wednesday and Good Friday to the joyful celebrations of Palm Sunday and Easter Sunday, these traditions showcase the deep faith and devotion of the Goan Catholic population. As the Lenten season unfolds, the community embraces these practices, providing an opportunity for introspection, gratitude, and a renewed understanding of the significance of Easter.