1.
GV Priests carrying casket (3 shots)
0.21

2.
GV TILT DOWN FROM Cathedral TO casket entering Cathedral (2 shots)
0.27

3.
GV Cathedral
0.34

4.
GV AND SV Pilgrims entering Cathedral to pay respects (3 shots)
0.40

5.
GV Remains of St Francis Xavier in casket
0.48

6.
SV AND CU Remains inside casket (3 shots)
1.00

7.
SV Pilgrims kissing and touching coffin (3 shots)
1.22



Initials DS/2210



Script is copyright Reuters Limited. All rights reserved

Background: The body of Saint Francis Xavier, the intrepid Jesuit missionary who lived more than 400 years ago, has brought pilgrims flocking to Old Goa in India where the remains of the saint are currently displayed for public venerations - possibly for the last time.

Church authorities in Goa have said the exposition, only the 13th on record, may be the last because the body shows signs of deterioration. It is reported that the body looks more like a clay figure, with cracked skin exposing the skull and bones in parts.

Pilgrims will have until January to pray at the feet of the saint. Three-hundred thousand pilgrims are expected in Goa during this period.

Saint Francis Xavier is recorded as having travelled in India and other parts of Asia during the mid sixteenth century. After he had died on the south coast of China, his body was brought to Goa by his followers. He as canonised in 1622.