The Milagres Saibinn Feast, held at St. Jerome Church in Mapusa, Goa, is a grand celebration of faith and communal harmony. This annual feast takes place on the second Monday after Easter, making May 5, 2025, the expected date for the upcoming celebration. Devotees from various religious backgrounds gather at the church to honor Our Lady of Miracles, also known as Milagres Saibinn.
A Sacred Tradition
The feast begins with a special ceremony where the revered statue of Our Lady of Miracles is placed in a beautifully decorated pandal outside the church. The statue, depicting the Blessed Virgin carrying Infant Jesus in her left hand while blessing devotees with her right, remains there for veneration throughout the festivities. A stall set up by the Confraria de Nosa Senora Dos Milagres Da Igreja offers devotees the opportunity to buy wax figures and pure coconut oil, which they pour over the statue as a ritual of prayer and gratitude.
A Feast for All
This celebration attracts both Christians and Hindus, who seek blessings from Milagres Saibinn. Many Hindus believe that she is the manifestation of goddess Mirabai, the sister of goddess Lahirai, whose zatra is celebrated at Shirgao on Vaishak Shudda Panchami (May 12, 2024). Devotees make vows, offer wax figurines, and pour coconut oil over the statue, believing in its miraculous healing powers.
A Vibrant Fair
The streets leading to St. Jerome Church transform into a bustling fairground. Vendors sell Goan delicacies like khaje (sweetmeats) and roasted gram (chonne), along with homemade traditional cuisine. Stalls also offer a variety of goods, including toys, clothing, utensils, and furniture. The lively atmosphere adds to the charm of the feast, making it a cultural as well as a religious event.
A Unique Custom of Gift Exchange
The exchange of gifts between the revered sisters, Lahirai Devi and Milagres Saibinn, makes the Milagres Saibinn Feast fascinating. On the feast day, Lahirai Devi symbolically sends an earthen pot (couso) of oil to Milagres, and in return, Milagres Saibinn offers a basket of flowers (mogrim) to Lahirai Devi during her zatra. This ritual strengthens the historical and spiritual bond between the two deities and their devotees.
A Testament to Goa’s Communal Harmony
The feast stands out for its secular nature, with thousands of people, regardless of faith, coming together to honor Milagres Saibinn. Unlike many religious festivals that remain exclusive to particular communities, this event highlights the deep-rooted respect and unity among different faiths in Goa. The presence of two statues—one for the oil bath and another for offerings—ensures that all worshippers can partake in the rituals at their own pace.
Conclusion
The Milagres Saibinn Feast is not just a religious observance but a beautiful expression of faith, culture, and unity. Year after year, devotees gather at St. Jerome Church in Mapusa to seek blessings, fulfill vows, and experience the vibrant fair that accompanies this historic celebration. The event serves as a reminder of Goa’s inclusive traditions, where spirituality and communal harmony coexist seamlessly.
