Panaji: Thousands of people have arrived at the Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral in Panaji to have a glimpse of the relics of the 16th century missionary, Saint Francis Xavier, popularly believed to have brought Christianity to Goan shores.

Over 34,000 devotees visited the shrine today (Dec 3, 2004) and the number is expected to reach the three-lakh mark by nightfall, according to Superintendent of Police, Bosco George.

The relics, preserved in an airtight casket in the Basilica, have been kept for public viewing from November 22. Popularly termed as the 'Exposition', this is the 16th exposition of the saint in Goa.

"December 3 is annually celebrated as a feast day dedicated to the Saint from Portugal, however, today, the number of those visiting the shrine has swelled because of the exposition, which is held in every 10 years," explains Father Olavo Velho, a spokesperson for the exposition.

"Earlier, the relics were open for all to venerate, but later it was decided to preserve it in a special air-tight casket and kept on a high altar at the Basilica," he added.

Special arrangements were made to ensure a smooth flow of pilgrims visiting the site.

"Nearly 1000 police personnel have been positioned from day one to ensure law and order," Bosco added.

"Arrangements have also been made to enable over 1000 persons to stay overnight at specially erected camps with over 450 devotees being currently camped in these sites," N S Randhawan, chief coordinator of the exposition, said.