Saligao Documentary Episode 1 - Mae De Deus Church
Channel: Cliffy Desilva
Date: 2020-05-03

Before the 18th century, Saligaokars walked all the way to Nagoa to attend services at the Church of the Most-holy trinity. This tiresome journey deeply impacted the old and sick of the village, as no other transportation was available then.

Considering the grievances of the people, Archbishop Dom Joao Cristomo de Amorim suggested that a church be built right here in Saligao for its people.

With the support of the Archbishop, Saligaokars met on the 5th of November 1864 and resolved to build the church at the earliest. 

The location of the church in Temba, Madvona was decided upon unanimously due to its central location and easy accessibility from all parts of the village. 

Hence, Saligao’s new church was commissioned to be built with much encouragement and support, this crucial project was spearheaded by Francisco Salvador Zeferino Pinto. 

With excitement slowly brewing in anticipation of the new church, the public works inspector Major Martins ambitiously drew a unique plan for a neo-gothic edifice. The project was approved on the 23rd of June 1865; the expenses of which would be borne by the Comunidade of Saligao. 

The foundation stone  was laid on the 7th of February where the main altar would be built. The honours were led by the then vicar general of the archdiocese, Canon Joaquim Antonio do Rosario. The church was successfully constructed after  6 years, 9months and 19 days.

The church was inaugurated by the Parish priest of Panjim Church, Fr. Domingos Jose Rafael Pinto on 26th November 1873.

The patroness of the church is Mae De Deus (Mother of God). In this honour,  the villagers requested the governor-general to bring the statue from Daugim ruins to Saligao.

After nearly 100 years of being on the left side of the altar, on 27th of November 1973 it was finally transferred to the main altar. 

With great anticipation and excitement, the church finally began services with Rev Fr. Caetano Xavier D’Abreu as the first parish priest. 

Globally First January was celebrated as the feast of the holy mother of God; but due to many Saligaokars residing in different parts of India and the world, it was changed to celebrate it on the first Sunday in the month of May.