Dear NYer,
I have read your message. You do not seem to be familiar with Indian Catholics from the State of Goa. So, for your information I will list some interesting information for you.
http://pweb.sophia.ac.jp/~d-mccoy/xavier/newman3.html At this Web Page, you will find all that you would like to know about the Missionary work done by Saint Francis Xavier while he was in Goa for a number of years.
In Goa, we still have the preserved and to a large extent the incorrupt body of Saint Francis Xavier at the Bom Jesus Basilica which is situated in Old Goa and which is some distance from the capital of the State of Goa.
In 2004, we had the annual 10 year exposition of the body of Saint Francis Xavier and this year since the 3rd of December the 500th Birth Celebrations of Saint Francis Xavier have commenced which will end next year on the same day in 2006.
In Jesus and Mary,
You are correct; I am not familiar with Indian Catholics. As a child, I remember my mother boxing up books, periodicals, magazines, and clothing to be sent to the missions in India.
Here in the US, we are plagued with enough of our own scandals. In certain dioceses (especially mine), there are reprobate bishops who have practically decimated their catholic flocks. As with your situation, we are also very concerned. I fought liturgical abuses at my parish and within my own diocese with little or no help. Hence, you have my deepest sympathy.
In my agony and distress, I turned to our Lord and asked Him to guide me to a holy priest, a reverent liturgy and a welcoming community where I could celebrate Mass. When I arrived at the Maronite Catholic Church, He let me know in no uncertain terms that I was 'home'. It is there that I have now planted my roots and embarked on a beautiful catholic faith journey.
Thank you for the link. It is late but I promise to read it tomorrow.