At ‘Fama’, all faiths seek blessings of Infant Jesus

Colva: The annual Fama celebration was held on Monday at the Our Lady of Mercy Church in Colva. Thousands of devotees gathered to seek blessings from the revered ‘Menino Jesu’ (Infant Jesus), a tradition that draws faithful from across the region.
Parish priest Fr Simplicio Fernandes led the High Mass at 5.30am, alongside other clergy members. During the ceremony, the statue of Infant Jesus was ceremonially removed from its casket, placed on the altar, and then carried in a procession around the church. After this, the statue was made available to devotees to pay their respects.
The belief in the powers of the Infant Jesus statue, and even the ring on its finger, transcends religious boundaries. People of various faiths come to the church to seek divine intervention for different reasons—couples pray for the gift of children, the sick seek healing from ailments like fractures, and others request blessings for their marriages.
Despite the scorching heat, many, including young mothers and their children, patiently stood in long queues to kiss the statue. In particular, infants are often brought to the Fama to receive a blessing from Infant Jesus.
Local lore tells of a time when Colva’s residents would prepare their homes by cleaning and whitewashing the walls, and stocking up on food, ready to welcome the countless pilgrims who journeyed to honour Infant Jesus.
An integral part of the Fama is the erection of the ‘maadi’ (pole), providing shade to the cradle of Infant Jesus. Devotees also tie ‘bentim’—wrist cords symbolising faith and good fortune—when seeking blessings.
To ensure smooth proceedings, Colva police and traffic personnel diverted vehicles through internal routes, ensuring uninterrupted access for pilgrims. A bomb disposal squad and CCTV surveillance were also deployed for security of the event.