St. Gonsalo Garcia Church, Palghar, Maharashtra

St. Gonsalo Garcia Church is located in Gass village in Vasai, Maharashtra, and belongs to the Diocese of Vasai. The church is dedicated to St. Gonsalo Garcia, the first Indian-born saint to be canonized by the Catholic Church. It stands as an important spiritual landmark for the local community and is known for its peaceful surroundings and active parish life.

The church building was first established in 1942 under the guidance of Msgr. Louis Caetano D’Souza, a Goan priest who played a key role in its formation. In 1957, the structure underwent renovation to maintain its stability and serve the growing parish better. Every year, the church celebrates the feast of St. Gonsalo Garcia around the 5th and 6th of February, drawing many devotees from Vasai and nearby areas.

St. Gonsalo Garcia himself was born in Vasai (then Bassein) around 1556–1557. He later traveled to Japan as a missionary, worked closely with local communities, and was martyred in Nagasaki in 1597. He was canonized in 1862 and is honored as the Principal Patron of the Diocese of Vasai. Because of his life and legacy, the church remains a cherished symbol of faith, history, and pride for the people of Vasai.