The Miraculous Cross

There are many monuments in Old Goa and on them many stories and tales are current among Goans. One of such historical monuments is the Cross of Miracles.

The Old city of Goa was situated in the middle of small hills. To the South of the city there is a hill which in Portuguese was known as "Monte de Boa Vista" (Mount of Beautiful Scenery) because from there nature's beautiful scenery unfolded itself before the eyes and the famous city known as the "Pearl of the Orient" added a special luster to the whole setting. People from the surrounding villages, would make it a point to climb the hill, in the evenings, to enjoy this beautiful panorama. This is the reason why a wise and good natured priest Fr. Manuel Rodrigues, had planted a 3 1/2 yards high Cross into a 2 feet high rock existing at the peak of the hill. This cross, tradition says, was first made by some shepherd boys out of a piece of coconut palm trunk. (Fr. Manuel Rodrigues was then assistant Parish Priest at the Cathedral). The Cross could be seen not only from the city but also from the island of Divar that lies on the other side of the river. The island of Divar is divided into three parishes; Malar (St. Mathis), Piedade and Naroa.

Sanctuary of Blessed Joseph Vaz, 413 Blessed Joseph Vaz Road, P. O. Cortalim, SANCOALE - Goa - 403710-INDIA

Contact Office Tel: 00 91 832 2550263 / 2550517 e-mail: sanjovaz@blessedjosephvaz.org [www.blessedjosephvaz.org]