St. Francis Xavier Church, Palghar, Maharashtra

St. Francis Xavier Church in Giriz, Vasai is the parish church for Giriz village and serves as an important spiritual center for Catholics in the area. The church provides regular Masses, parish services, and community support, making it a hub for faith and local gatherings.

The church’s history dates back to the early 20th century. The foundation was laid on 14 February 1917, and by 1918 the local parishioners completed its construction without any foreign aid. Giriz became an independent parish, with Fr. Augusto D’Souza serving as its first parish priest. Over the years, the church underwent expansions, including the addition of a porch, community hall, and parochial house, and the two spires were replaced in 1981.

Today, St. Francis Xavier Church remains an active and vibrant parish. Every year, the feast of St. Francis Xavier on 3 December is celebrated with devotion and community participation. Beyond its religious role, the church has become a cherished part of Giriz’s social and cultural fabric, symbolizing faith, heritage, and community for generations of locals.