UPSC Previous Year Question | Prelims GS | 2021

Consider the following statements: 1. St. Francis Xavier was one of the founding members of the Jesuit Order. 2. St. Francis Xavier died in Goa and a church is dedicated to him there. 3. The Feast of St. Francis Xavier is celebrated in Goa each year. Which of the statements given above are correct?

  1. 1 and 2 only
  2. 2 and 3 only
  3. 1 and 3 only
  4. 1, 2 and 3

Answer

Correct Answer

1 and 3 only

Explanation

St. Francis Xavier was one of the co-founders of the Society of Jesus (statement 1). He died in 1552 on Sancian Island off the Chinese coast, not in Goa; his remains were later brought to the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Goa, so statement 2 is incorrect. His feast is celebrated in Goa every year on 3 December (statement 3).

Topics: european missionaries in india, history, modern history, st. francis xavier and the jesuits