![TAKING STOCK: This month sees the popular ‘Purumentachem Fest’ in Panjim and Margao.](http://media.assettype.com/gomantaktimes%2F2024-05%2F1be31e4d-93f6-41a6-aa89-0a776c98211e%2FImp_template_for_GT____2024_05_09T135137_587.jpg?w=480&auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=max)
In Goa, all feasts have fairs which attract large crowds, but the Purumentachem Fest is different because it is a one-stop shop for those looking to stock up an assortment of traditional culinary ingredients for the upcoming monsoon months.
NOVENAS OF THE FEAST OF ASCENSION IN PANJIM
A nine-day preparation for the feast of the Ascension of Our Lord (popularly known as Purumentachem Fest) is currently being held at the Immaculate Conception Church, Panjim. The novenas, which began on May 3, 2024 will end with the vespers on May 11, 2024 (6 pm).
Masses are held at 6 pm on all novena days.
On the feast day, May 12, 2024, masses will be held at 7 am (Konkani), 8.15 am (English) 9.30 am (Konkani) and 11 am (Portuguese). The feast mass will be celebrated at 9.30 am and includes a traditional procession.
Situated in the heart of Goa’s capital city, Panjim Church is one of Goa’s most famous churches and is almost five centuries old.
FEAST DAY: Sunday, May 12, 2024
HOLY SPIRIT FEAST IN MARGAO
The Catholic Church celebrates the feast of the Holy Spirit seven weeks after Easter, and this year, the Holy Spirit Church, Margao, will celebrate the feast of its patron on May 19, 2024.
The novenas will begin from May 10, 2024 with the recitation of the rosary at 5.45 pm, followed by the novena mass daily.
On the feast day, there will be masses in the four-centuries-old church at 5 am, 6 am, 7 am, 8.15 am, 9.30 am and 11.45 am, with the feast mass being celebrated at 9.30 am.
In Margao, this feast is also known as Purumentachem Fest
FEAST DAY: Sunday, May 19, 2024