Walking in Faith: Goa’s Annual Pilgrimage Draws Thousands to Sancoale

The Archdiocese of Goa and Daman, in southwest India, hosted its annual Walking Pilgrimage to Sancoale, drawing thousands of faithful and turning the historic site into a vibrant gathering of devotion, prayer, and communal spirit. Centered on the theme “Followers of Christ, Pilgrims of Hope, the pilgrimage showcased the convergence of faith, youth energy, and village participation in one of Goa’s most enduring religious traditions.

A Multi-Point Journey

The 2026 pilgrimage began in the early hours of February 22, with participants setting out from five designated points: Bambolim, Neura, Verna, Cansaulim, and Vasco. Pilgrims made their way to the Frontispiece of Sancoale Church, the birthplace of St. Joseph Vaz, a site revered for its historical and spiritual significance. Along the route, participants engaged in Rosary prayer and reflection on the life and Passion of Christ, culminating in Eucharistic adoration led by Fr. Henry Falcao and a solemn Mass presided over by Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão, Archbishop of Goa and Daman. Concelebrants included Auxiliary Bishop Simião Purificação Fernandes, the new Bishop Elect Agnelo Pinheiro of Sindhudurg, and a large contingent of priests.

Youth Presence: The “Blue Wave”

The pilgrimage this year was marked by a strong youth presence, forming a “Blue Wave” led by Diocesan Youth Director Fr. Blaise Lobo. Hundreds of young pilgrims wore blue t-shirts inscribed with Isaiah 40:31: “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary.”

For many young participants, the pilgrimage offered both spiritual renewal and a sense of community. Ms. Swizle from Mapusa noted, “I walk because I get to smile at many people… In that exchange of smiles, exhaustion turns to joy.” Similarly, participants from Loutolim and Canacona highlighted the opportunity to leave behind daily distractions, experience silence, and carry petitions for loved ones in prayer. For return pilgrims from Molcornem, the walk reaffirmed faith and answered prayers from previous years, while the youth of Shiroda emphasized the strength of communal effort over individual endeavor.

Miracles Along the Way

Pilgrims shared stories of endurance and perceived healing. A woman from Velim, who normally suffers from chronic knee pain, reported completing the trek without discomfort, while others walked in thanksgiving for personal blessings or business success. First-time participants frequently remarked on the surprising ease of the long journey, attributing it to “the grace of the walk.”

Service and Support

The pilgrimage also relies on those who serve rather than walk. The St. Luke’s Nurses Guild provided continuous care for the weary, and local residents contributed hospitality and practical support, reflecting a communal spirit of service that parallels the pilgrims’ devotion.

A Unified Witness

By the end of the day, approximately 30,000 pilgrims had gathered at Sancoale, turning the historic site into a dynamic space of faith, penance, and communal hope. From the energy of the youth to the silent prayers of the elderly, the event demonstrated the enduring significance of the Bhavarthachi Yatra in Goa. It remains a space where participants can find spiritual renewal, a sense of belonging, and a shared witness of faith that transcends age, background, and circumstance.

The annual Walking Pilgrimage continues to evolve beyond a traditional religious observance, standing as a living expression of Goan devotion and the communal spirit that sustains it year after year.