OUR LADY OF SNOW CHURCH - RAIA
Pilgrimage
Distance (From Panjim (Goa)): 34 Kms
Commonly Visited From: Rachol Seminary and Church (2.2 kms)
Trip Duration (From Rachol Seminary and Church , Including Travel): 30 Mins - 1 Hr
Place Location: Raia Village
Transportation Options: Cab / Auto / Rental Bike
Travel Tips: This place is usually visited from Rachol Seminary and Church (2.2 kms)
At a distance of 34 km from Panjim Kadamba Bus Stand, 29 km from Vasco Da Gama Railway Station and 7.5 km from Margao Railway Station, Our Lady of Snow Church is situated in South Goa.
Our Lady of Snow Church is located in Raia Village of Salcete Taluka. Raia has the distinction of being the first village in Salcete to be Christianized, when its people was converted simultaneously to Christianity in 1560. Raia Church is the first church built by the Portuguese and was dedicated to our lady of snows. This church is also known as the Raia church. Blessed in 1699 during the inauguration by 22 Jesuit priests, this church is one of the oldest in Goa. The church and parochial residence were thoroughly renovated in 2003.
This church is famous for 'Konsache fest' on 5th August, Which is celebrated with great pomp after the sheaves of rice harvest. It is attended by people of all faith and a large number of devotees from all over the state. The local parish priest cuts the first sheaves of the rice harvest from the nearby fields and distributed it among the devotees present. These are then used by the devotees to prepare some rice dish at home. The sheaves are also sent to the governor of Goa and the archbishop of Goa as a symbol of love, good wishes and prosperity. On this day as per tradition, a football tournament is held which is attended by clubs surrounding the area. After the high mass, people take home a sheave to put it on their altar or some put it in their vehicle for as a symbol of protection.
