Church of Our Lady of Grace

The Church of Our Lady of Grace is a Catholic parish church located in Pajifond, Margao, Goa. Originally established as the Capela de Batalhao (Battalion Chapel) by the Portuguese First Infantry Regiment in 1812, it was elevated to an independent parish in 1959. The current structure, featuring modern architectural lines, was inaugurated on January 1, 1977. It serves as a significant spiritual center for approximately 4,000 parishioners and is locally known as The Margao Grace Church.

Visitors can expect a modern Catholic church situated on an elevated site with 28 marble steps leading to the main entrance. The premises feature a grotto of Our Lady of Fatima, an illuminated cross atop the bell tower, and a Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament with a glass monstrance. Five biblical mosaic scenes depicting the Annunciation, Visitation, Birth of Jesus, Wedding Feast at Cana, and Crucifixion are displayed at the entrance. The church offers a quiet atmosphere for private prayer and religious services.

Originally constructed as the Capela de Batalhao (Battalion Chapel) starting January 6, 1812, by Brigadier Agostinho Jose de Mota of the Portuguese First Infantry Regiment. The first mass was celebrated on May 3, 1812. It became strategically important after the railway line opened in 1888 and the New Market started in 1889. The chapel was detached from Holy Spirit Parish and elevated to an independent parish on May 31, 1959. The present church building was consecrated on January 1, 1977.

The church serves as a central spiritual hub for the Catholic community in Margao with approximately 4,000 parishioners across 26 Small Christian Communities. It houses religious institutions including Loyola High School (Jesuits), Fatima Convent High School (Apostolic Carmel), and the Carmelite Monastery. The feast of Our Lady of Grace is celebrated annually on February 5th. It was the first parish in the Archdiocese of Goa to establish a Parish Pastoral Council in 1971 and publish a monthly bulletin.