Carta del pe. M. diego que fue de los que fundaron el collegio de s. pablo en Goa para el pe. M. simon de xviij de nouiembre de 1545.
This abstract describes a historically significant letter dated 16 November 1545, authored by Dom Diogo (identified in the signature as ‘Dom Diogo’ and marginalia as ‘Father Diego’), addressed to Father Simão, concerning the foundation and early administration of the College of St Paul—also known as...
Saved in:
| Format: | Manuscripts |
|---|---|
| Published: |
1545-11-18
|
| Subjects: |
António (Jesuit sacristan)
;
Borba, Pe. M.diogo de
;
Catholic evangelisation India
;
College of St Paul Goa
;
Collegium Conversionis Fidei
;
Collegium Sancti Pauli
;
Dom Diogo
;
Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction Dispute
;
Father Simão
;
Francisco M. Pablo
;
Goa
;
Jesuit missionary strategy
;
João da Beira
;
Martim de Sosa
;
Nicolau Fao
;
Portuguese Colonial Ecclesiastical Administration
;
Rodrigues, Pe. M. Simão
;
native Christian liaison roles
;
Manuscripts
|
| Online Access: | https://macau-legacy.usj.edu.mo/docs/4HYRUCMQ/viewer_4HYRUCMQ.html |
| _version_ | 1877197617080827904 |
|---|---|
| archiveLocation | 49-IV-49, fl. 15 |
| building | Portugal. Biblioteca da Ajuda |
| collection | Portugal. Biblioteca da Ajuda |
| description | This abstract describes a historically significant letter dated 16 November 1545, authored by Dom Diogo (identified in the signature as ‘Dom Diogo’ and marginalia as ‘Father Diego’), addressed to Father Simão, concerning the foundation and early administration of the College of St Paul—also known as the *Collegium Conversionis Fidei* and *Collegium Sancti Pauli*—in Goa. The document details the college’s establishment for the propagation and consolidation of the Catholic faith among Indian populations, its staffing structure under Jesuit leadership—including Fathers Nicolau Fao (Superior and grammar instructor), António (sacristan and infirmarian), João da Beira (porter), and Master Francisco M. Pablo (administrator)—and reports on the growth of local converts, numbering sixty by late 1545. It records administrative concerns including personnel shortages, appeals for additional learned Jesuit scholars proficient in theology and the liberal arts, colonial governance issues involving fishermen’s liberties granted by Martim de Sosa, ecclesiastical jurisdictional disputes, and recommendations for appointing native Christians—not Hindus (*gentios*)—to key liaison roles such as *intérpretes* and *naigue*. A supplementary note dated 28 November 1545 confirms the letter’s origin in Goa and reiterates urgent requests for stable Jesuit presence and royal provisions safeguarding *marranos* and indigenous converts. The text is a primary source for studying early Jesuit missionary strategy, Portuguese colonial ecclesiastical administration, and intercultural religious engagement in sixteenth-century India. Entry number 12 in catalogue "Jesuítas na Ásia" |
| first_indexed | 2026-05-10T08:59:02Z |
| format | Manuscripts |
| fulltext | [transcription]
{{PAGE:1}}
[Page]
16
[Marginalia — top left]
M
[Stamp — top right]
[Illegible decorative stamp or seal]
[Main text]
carta del p. Diego y fue delos y fundaron el colegio
de S. Pablo en Goa para el p. Simon de 16 de noviembre de 1545.
La paz de Jesu X. N. S. sea con él y con toda la compañía de su santo nombre,
el Gt sea loado para siempre pues por su misericordia tuvo por bien de acordarse
de los miserables spanos para los aunitar y recoger con su amor y caridad y quiso se
formar los costumbres tan ajenos y diversos del primer modo y forma de proceder
y también le plació acordarse de estos gentiles de la India los gles nica lo quisieron
conocer y honrar su santo nombre hasta ora, siguiendo desde el principio de sus
grandes maneras de idolatrías y costumbres monstruosas sin ninguna querer
obedecer a la edad y claridad de la ley de Jesu X. N. S.: pues ahora en estos
presentes tiros algunos Reyes y príncipes gentiles por sí mismos se convierten
a nuestra Santa Fe Católica lo y espero harán todos los otros tipos de tales
y tan grandes reynos como hay en esta India. Yo tengo para mí y Dios N. S. quieren
de salvar estas gentes de aquí y reformar las de allá uno por su servicio sufrir
[Signature]
[ILLEGIBLE: ~8 chars]
{{PAGE:2}}
[Title]
Cartas Da India.
[Main text]
esa vna faneta compa para della se servir eneste ministerio desta su tan copiosa mi sericordia y pues asi es g es para eso os escogio tan conformes asu quererivo luntad y enessas partes de europa lo seruis con tanta charidad cogiendo devos trabajos fruto contessimo segun aca se dize pecos por la charidad de agl sor g os mmaue asofrir esos prabaios por amor del guerais tambien socorer con vna favor y ayuda al desamparo destas perdidas gentes g enestas partes bienen si su Giuir se puede llamar vida. y por yo saber el mucho g vna compa desto tiene pareciendome ser escusadas mis amonestaciones pongo silencio a esta platica-.
Aca aportaron los perfectos varones M. frco M. pablo y frco demansillas. y solo M. pablo quedo enesta ciudad de goa en un collegio g aca nueuam se hizo el gl se llama della conuersion dela fe pero la gente desta tierra le pusieron nombre s. pablo y s. pablo fue el nombre de su primera imposicion y asi unos lo llaman de s. fe y otros de s. pablo, Mi parecer es g este collegio se hizo luego determinadamente para vna compa antes g aca della tuvie gsemos alguna noticia parece g lo ordenaua a si dios nro s. para g quando sus siervos veniesen hallasen luego materia en g pudiesen obrar y amparo pa ra se auer de recoger y torre para della se auer de defender delas insidias desa tanas, para g haziendose enella fuertes juntos hiziesen cuerpo para della po der conquistar los pueblos destas indias derrocando conmyptmoso spu y fuerzas de eyemplo y ptudes las fuerzas del demonio y asi sera plaziendo adios y para eso auer de ser paracio bien atos y g v. B. aca embio quedaran enesta ciudad y collegio siendo para eso amonestados del sor gouernador y yo tambien fuy del mismo parecer asi por las causas dichas como para dar orden de biuir y doEtrinar los collegiales desta casa lo g sin ellos no se podia bien hazer y con ellos estar aqui esta todo con tanto concierto y orden g es mucho para dar gras adios N.S. Mas aun son pocos para faphir alo g enesta casa ay g hazer por lo gl les conuiene seruir doblados oficios. elegieron jentes si por mayoral al p. nico fao el gl sirue de ser siervo de todos y enseña gramatica a xx moços con mucho y continuo trabajo el p. antonio sirue de saeristan y enfermero por auer siempre en la casa muchos enfermos el p. iuan da beira sirue de portero y tiene enefo tanto mydaiog muchas vezes me parece ser como el angel g con la spa da guarda el parayso serenal. M. pablo tiene cuidado de todo y tiene tanto cuidado y vigilancia g cothella parece haze huir el demonio deste collegio y de sus terminos. y asi esta nro collegio creciendo en virtudes y buena doEtrina y ira.
{{PAGE:3}}
[Page]
16
[Main text]
Do ano de 1545.
multiplicando de bien en mejor hasta estos mros her°° venir a edad para poder yr reginar y hacer fructo el numero dellos es sesenta y siempre van multiplican do y algunos dellos q son mayores hazen muestra de auer de ser muy buenos hombres delos q les algunos predican y son ya razonables gramaticos sexa muy necesario prouerse de alla esta casa de un par de hombres letrados en ar tes y theologia y estos sean de la comp° por q tengan uno y otro s virtudes y letras q dotra man° aca ningun valor tienen persi las letras para el ne gocio de q tratamos y los letrados q uviere de venir sean tales q no se con ten solatn conel nombre de letrados mas q realm° lo sean y si a v.R. le pareciere q yo pido mucho perdoneme por q el deseo q tengo desta collegio pro ceder bien me lo haze hazer y espero en la Nra del sor q el prouera en esto mas largamente delo q yo deseo y pido. — R. mande alos p° q aqui estan q no se uan de aqui y embie de alla otros los mas q pudiere por q la uina es muy grande y ay falta de obreros. ellos tienen algun scrupulo con les parecer q no cumpliran lo q les mandastas y tengo miedo q para la mocan q viene se partan el s° Juan da beyra y el p. Antonio y si lo hazen queda esta casa desbaratada y yo desconsolado por q soy ya muy viejo y no puedo con los trabajos ni siruo aqui de mas q de estrouarlos con mis enferme dades y defectos y acompanan la velez y queriame ir para el reyno y dar estos trabajos a otro q no de estoruo y pesarmeya mucho de esta casa no quedar bien ordenada. Creo q v.R. tomara della tanto cuydado y la prouera de mañ° q toda la India reciba mucho exemplo y consolacion y yo con ella, y por no ser prolijo y estar enfermo enca ma (lo q me haze escreuir esta por mano auena) no dize mas. pero haze aqui algunos apuntam° necesarias alos xpanos desta isla delas yglesia: es esta sabra v.R. Que martin a de sosa hizo aca libres alos pescadores desta isla asi xpanos como gentiles delas quales mas q son unos derechos q aca pagauan como los capitanes y tanadaxes y los cobravan vieron Gouernador nuevo roga ronle q les tornase el tal derecho lo q el mando q se viese en la chancilleria y como los mizeros pescadores sean pobres y los capitanes y Tanadaxos ricos y poderosos tengo miedo q suceda mal alos pescadores y ya se dio sentencia contra ciertos dellos y morauan en benestarimos. quasi la mayor parte dellos yo hize xpanos la guaresma pasada y no serian tan posos q no pasasen de cien almas alos q les jua dejar misa todos los domingos y tenaua uno.
{{PAGE:4}}
[Title]
Cartas Da India,
[Main text]
destos her no de casa comigo & les predicaua en su lengua hasta venir el y juan da bejra & me quito deste trabajo estos por la seccia & contra ellos dieron hu yeron todos. Moshe v.B. este capitulo amig el vaz vicario general & fue en estas partes & el le dara informacion de todas estas cosas y aya v.B. alla una prouision del rey N.s en q confirma lo q tenian de marrin a para bien destos pobres y su favor. Tambien aya de su A. & los officios dela India de interpretes naigues se den a los naturales xpanos destas partes y no a los genti les y v.B. acabe alla esto con su A. por amor de dios. encomiendome en sus santos sacrificios y oraciones. el sor dios guarde v.B. y toda la compª de
[Main text]
todo mal amen de goa a xxviij de noviembre de 1545
[Signature]
De su de voto /N.t. diego
[Marginalia — bottom left]
ferao este anno
Savao no Do1
[translation]
{{PAGE:1}}
[Page]
16
[Marginalia — top left]
M
[Stamp — top right]
[Illegible decorative stamp or seal]
[Main text]
Letter from Father Diego, concerning the foundation of the College of St Paul in Goa, addressed to Father Simão, dated 16 November 1545.
The peace of Jesus Christ our Lord be upon him and upon the entire Society bearing His holy name. May God the Father be praised for evermore, for—by His mercy—He deigned to remember the wretched Spaniards, to unite and gather them through His love and charity; and He willed that their customs—so alien and divergent from the original manner and mode of conduct—should be reformed. Likewise, it pleased Him to remember these Gentiles of India, whom the Church has long desired to bring to the knowledge and worship of His holy name; yet until now they have persisted, from the very beginning, in their manifold idolatries and monstrous customs, refusing—without exception—to submit to the light and authority of the law of Jesus Christ our Lord. Now, however, in these present times, certain Hindu kings and princes are converting of their own accord to our Holy Catholic Faith; and I trust that all other rulers—and the numerous great kingdoms throughout this India—will follow suit. For my part, I am convinced—and I believe our Lord God wills—that these peoples shall be saved, and those elsewhere reformed, each one through his service and endurance.
[Signature]
[Illegible: ~8 characters]
{{PAGE:2}}
**Title**
Letters from India
**Main Text**
This Company [i.e., the Society of Jesus] was chosen by divine providence to serve in this ministry—so vast and demanding is the spiritual harvest here—that God’s mercy towards it is abundant. Since this is so, He has selected you in such conformity with His will that, even before your arrival in these parts of Europe, you have already served with exceptional charity, willingly embracing hardships and bearing fruit most assuredly—so it is reported here—through the charity of Our Lord, who has moved you to offer up these trials out of love for Him. You are likewise called to extend favour and assistance to the abandoned peoples of these lands: souls lost, as it were, and dwelling in a condition which, strictly speaking, can scarcely be termed ‘life’ without the grace of God.
Knowing well the great zeal this Company demonstrates in this regard, I deem my own admonitions superfluous; thus, I conclude this discourse in silence.
Here arrived the exemplary religious men: Master Francisco M. Pablo and Brother Demansillas. Only Master Pablo remained in the city of Goa, at a newly established college—founded expressly for the propagation and consolidation of the Faith—whose official title is *Collegium Conversionis Fidei* [College of the Conversion of the Faith]. Yet the local populace has named it *São Paulo* (St Paul), after the patron to whom its first foundation was dedicated; hence some refer to it as the *Collegium Sanctae Fidei* (College of the Holy Faith), others as the *Collegium Sancti Pauli* (College of St Paul). In my view, this college was deliberately founded from the outset to serve the Society of Jesus—even before we had any certain knowledge of its establishment—suggesting that Our Lord ordained it thus, so that when His servants arrived, they would find both ready scope for apostolic labour and secure shelter wherein to gather, rest, and fortify themselves against the snares of the enemy. Thus strengthened and united within its walls, they might form a cohesive body capable of conquering the peoples of these Indies—not by force of arms, but through the invincible power of example, virtue, and sound doctrine—thereby overthrowing the dominion of the devil. May this be pleasing to God! It is therefore fitting that those entrusted to you should remain in this city and college, having been formally exhorted thereto by the Most Reverend Governor; and I myself concur fully—not only for the reasons stated above, but also to ensure proper governance and doctrinal instruction for the collegiate members resident here. Without their presence, such discipline could not be adequately maintained; with them, all proceeds with remarkable harmony and order—so much so that profound gratitude is due to Our Lord.
Yet the number of personnel remains insufficient to discharge all the duties incumbent upon this house; consequently, each member is required to undertake a double office. Thus, the Fathers were appointed to specific responsibilities: Father Nicolau Fao, elected Superior, fulfils the role of servant to all and teaches grammar to twenty youths, doing so with great and continuous diligence. Father António serves as sacristan and infirmarian, given the persistent presence of many sick persons in the house. Father João da Beira acts as porter, bearing his burdens with such patience and humility that he often seems to me like the angel who, with sword in hand, guards the gates of paradise. Master Pablo oversees the entire administration of the college; his vigilance and solicitude are so constant and penetrating that the very presence of the devil appears to flee from this college and its precincts. Thus, our college continues to grow steadily in virtue, sound doctrine, and fervour.
{{PAGE:3}}
[Page]
16
From the year 1545.
The number of converts has multiplied steadily—from good to better—until now these brothers have reached an age at which they are able to govern and bear spiritual fruit; their number stands at sixty, and continues to increase. Moreover, some of the elder among them already show clear promise of becoming truly exemplary men: several have begun to receive instruction, and many are now capable of reasoned discourse—indeed, some have already attained a sound grounding in grammar. It is therefore most necessary that this house be furnished from there with a pair of learned men—proficient in both the liberal arts and theology—and that these should be members of the Society [of Jesus], so that they may combine both virtue and learning. Elsewhere, learning alone carries no weight in the work we undertake here; for our purposes, letters without virtue are of no value whatsoever. Those scholars sent hence must not merely bear the title of ‘learned’, but must be genuinely and demonstrably so. Should Your Reverence deem my request excessive, I beg your pardon; yet it is born solely of my deep desire that this college should prosper well—and I place my hope in Our Lord that He will provide for this matter far more abundantly than I dare ask or imagine.
— Response: Direct those Fathers presently stationed here not to depart; and dispatch from there—as many as possible—others in their stead. For the harvest is great, and labourers are few. These Fathers entertain scruples, fearing they may fail to fulfil the duties you have assigned them; and I fear that, before the next monsoon season arrives, Fathers João da Beira and António may indeed depart. Were that to occur, this house would collapse entirely, and I—already advanced in years—would be left utterly disconsolate; for I am no longer equal to the labours required, nor can I serve here in any capacity beyond burdening the brethren with my infirmities and physical limitations. Age weighs heavily upon me, and I had wished to return to the Kingdom, entrusting these responsibilities to another who would cause less hindrance and distress. It grieves me deeply that this house should not be left in proper and stable order. I trust Your Reverence will take such diligent care of it, and make provision for it so wisely and thoroughly, that the whole of India may draw both edification and consolation therefrom—and I, too, shall share in that consolation.
Being unwell (which is why I have dictated this letter through another’s hand), and wishing to avoid undue prolixity, I add no further remarks—though I do append here certain necessary observations concerning the Spaniards and churches on this island:
Your Reverence should know that Martim de Sosa recently granted freedom to the fishermen of this island—both Christian and non-Christian alike. This liberation concerned certain customary dues previously levied upon them—dues analogous to those exacted by local captains and *tanadaxes* (i.e., native headmen or revenue officers). Upon the appointment of a new Governor, these impoverished fishermen petitioned him to rescind the levy; whereupon he ordered the matter to be examined in the Chancery. Yet, given that these fishermen are wretchedly poor, while the captains and *tanadaxes* are wealthy and powerful, I greatly fear adverse consequences for the former. Indeed, judgment has already been pronounced against certain of them—men resident in Benastarim. During last Lent, I myself instructed and baptised the majority of these fishermen; they numbered well over one hundred souls, and I was accustomed to celebrate Mass for them every Sunday, assisted by one catechist.
{{PAGE:4}}
**Title**
Letters from India
**Main text**
These men were staying in my house, and I preached to them in their own language until the arrival of Father João da Veiga and myself. Thereupon, they withdrew me from this duty—these individuals did so on account of the *seccia* [i.e., the *seccia* or *secção*, a colonial administrative division or jurisdictional district, here likely referring to the ecclesiastical or civil authority responsible for pastoral oversight], and, acting against them, they all departed.
Moses V.B. — this chapter was entrusted to the Vicar General, and he travelled to these parts; he will be able to provide you with full information concerning all these matters. Moreover, Your Grace should obtain there a royal provision (*provisão*) issued by His Most Serene Majesty the King (N.S. = *Nossa Senhora*, i.e., ‘Our Lady’, a conventional honorific prefix used in Portuguese royal documents of the period, here standing for *Nossa Senhora a Rainha* or more plausibly *Nosso Senhor o Rei*, though context suggests the latter is intended as a pious circumlocution for the monarch) confirming the rights and privileges previously granted to the aforementioned *marranos* [i.e., Jews forcibly converted to Christianity in Iberia and their descendants, many of whom settled in Portuguese Asia; the term is retained in scholarly usage with explanatory glossing, as it appears in the original and carries precise historical meaning] for the welfare and protection of these poor people.
Furthermore, Your Grace should ensure that appointments to the offices of interpreter (*intérpretes*) and *naigue* [a Portuguese transliteration of the Konkani *nayak* or Marathi *nayak*, denoting a local headman or community leader entrusted with liaison duties between colonial authorities and indigenous populations] in the Indian administration are conferred upon native Christians (*cristãos nativos*) of these regions—and not upon *gentios* [i.e., non-Christians, especially Hindus, used here as a formal administrative and religious category in Portuguese colonial discourse]. We earnestly entreat Your Grace to conclude this matter with His Excellency the Viceroy, for the love of God.
I commend myself to your holy sacrifices and prayers. May God preserve Your Grace and the entire Company [i.e., the Society of Jesus (*Companhia de Jesus*), whose members routinely referred to themselves collectively as *a Companhia*].
**Date**
From Goa, 28th November 1545
**Signature**
Your humble servant in Christ,
Dom Diogo
**Marginalia — bottom left**
*Ferao este anno* [‘They were ordained this year’]
*Savão no Do1* [i.e., *Savão no Domínio Primeiro*: ‘Savão in the First Dominion’, likely a marginal note identifying the location or jurisdictional designation of a specific ecclesiastical appointment or ordination; *Savão* is an early variant spelling of *São* (Saint), possibly referring to *São Paulo* or another titular church or parish; *Do1* abbreviates *Domínio Primeiro*, a term used in Portuguese ecclesiastical administration to denote the first of several territorial divisions under a bishopric or vicariate] |
| fulltext_transcription | {{PAGE:1}}
[Page]
16
[Marginalia — top left]
M
[Stamp — top right]
[Illegible decorative stamp or seal]
[Main text]
carta del p. Diego y fue delos y fundaron el colegio
de S. Pablo en Goa para el p. Simon de 16 de noviembre de 1545.
La paz de Jesu X. N. S. sea con él y con toda la compañía de su santo nombre,
el Gt sea loado para siempre pues por su misericordia tuvo por bien de acordarse
de los miserables spanos para los aunitar y recoger con su amor y caridad y quiso se
formar los costumbres tan ajenos y diversos del primer modo y forma de proceder
y también le plació acordarse de estos gentiles de la India los gles nica lo quisieron
conocer y honrar su santo nombre hasta ora, siguiendo desde el principio de sus
grandes maneras de idolatrías y costumbres monstruosas sin ninguna querer
obedecer a la edad y claridad de la ley de Jesu X. N. S.: pues ahora en estos
presentes tiros algunos Reyes y príncipes gentiles por sí mismos se convierten
a nuestra Santa Fe Católica lo y espero harán todos los otros tipos de tales
y tan grandes reynos como hay en esta India. Yo tengo para mí y Dios N. S. quieren
de salvar estas gentes de aquí y reformar las de allá uno por su servicio sufrir
[Signature]
[ILLEGIBLE: ~8 chars]
{{PAGE:2}}
[Title]
Cartas Da India.
[Main text]
esa vna faneta compa para della se servir eneste ministerio desta su tan copiosa mi sericordia y pues asi es g es para eso os escogio tan conformes asu quererivo luntad y enessas partes de europa lo seruis con tanta charidad cogiendo devos trabajos fruto contessimo segun aca se dize pecos por la charidad de agl sor g os mmaue asofrir esos prabaios por amor del guerais tambien socorer con vna favor y ayuda al desamparo destas perdidas gentes g enestas partes bienen si su Giuir se puede llamar vida. y por yo saber el mucho g vna compa desto tiene pareciendome ser escusadas mis amonestaciones pongo silencio a esta platica-.
Aca aportaron los perfectos varones M. frco M. pablo y frco demansillas. y solo M. pablo quedo enesta ciudad de goa en un collegio g aca nueuam se hizo el gl se llama della conuersion dela fe pero la gente desta tierra le pusieron nombre s. pablo y s. pablo fue el nombre de su primera imposicion y asi unos lo llaman de s. fe y otros de s. pablo, Mi parecer es g este collegio se hizo luego determinadamente para vna compa antes g aca della tuvie gsemos alguna noticia parece g lo ordenaua a si dios nro s. para g quando sus siervos veniesen hallasen luego materia en g pudiesen obrar y amparo pa ra se auer de recoger y torre para della se auer de defender delas insidias desa tanas, para g haziendose enella fuertes juntos hiziesen cuerpo para della po der conquistar los pueblos destas indias derrocando conmyptmoso spu y fuerzas de eyemplo y ptudes las fuerzas del demonio y asi sera plaziendo adios y para eso auer de ser paracio bien atos y g v. B. aca embio quedaran enesta ciudad y collegio siendo para eso amonestados del sor gouernador y yo tambien fuy del mismo parecer asi por las causas dichas como para dar orden de biuir y doEtrinar los collegiales desta casa lo g sin ellos no se podia bien hazer y con ellos estar aqui esta todo con tanto concierto y orden g es mucho para dar gras adios N.S. Mas aun son pocos para faphir alo g enesta casa ay g hazer por lo gl les conuiene seruir doblados oficios. elegieron jentes si por mayoral al p. nico fao el gl sirue de ser siervo de todos y enseña gramatica a xx moços con mucho y continuo trabajo el p. antonio sirue de saeristan y enfermero por auer siempre en la casa muchos enfermos el p. iuan da beira sirue de portero y tiene enefo tanto mydaiog muchas vezes me parece ser como el angel g con la spa da guarda el parayso serenal. M. pablo tiene cuidado de todo y tiene tanto cuidado y vigilancia g cothella parece haze huir el demonio deste collegio y de sus terminos. y asi esta nro collegio creciendo en virtudes y buena doEtrina y ira.
{{PAGE:3}}
[Page]
16
[Main text]
Do ano de 1545.
multiplicando de bien en mejor hasta estos mros her°° venir a edad para poder yr reginar y hacer fructo el numero dellos es sesenta y siempre van multiplican do y algunos dellos q son mayores hazen muestra de auer de ser muy buenos hombres delos q les algunos predican y son ya razonables gramaticos sexa muy necesario prouerse de alla esta casa de un par de hombres letrados en ar tes y theologia y estos sean de la comp° por q tengan uno y otro s virtudes y letras q dotra man° aca ningun valor tienen persi las letras para el ne gocio de q tratamos y los letrados q uviere de venir sean tales q no se con ten solatn conel nombre de letrados mas q realm° lo sean y si a v.R. le pareciere q yo pido mucho perdoneme por q el deseo q tengo desta collegio pro ceder bien me lo haze hazer y espero en la Nra del sor q el prouera en esto mas largamente delo q yo deseo y pido. — R. mande alos p° q aqui estan q no se uan de aqui y embie de alla otros los mas q pudiere por q la uina es muy grande y ay falta de obreros. ellos tienen algun scrupulo con les parecer q no cumpliran lo q les mandastas y tengo miedo q para la mocan q viene se partan el s° Juan da beyra y el p. Antonio y si lo hazen queda esta casa desbaratada y yo desconsolado por q soy ya muy viejo y no puedo con los trabajos ni siruo aqui de mas q de estrouarlos con mis enferme dades y defectos y acompanan la velez y queriame ir para el reyno y dar estos trabajos a otro q no de estoruo y pesarmeya mucho de esta casa no quedar bien ordenada. Creo q v.R. tomara della tanto cuydado y la prouera de mañ° q toda la India reciba mucho exemplo y consolacion y yo con ella, y por no ser prolijo y estar enfermo enca ma (lo q me haze escreuir esta por mano auena) no dize mas. pero haze aqui algunos apuntam° necesarias alos xpanos desta isla delas yglesia: es esta sabra v.R. Que martin a de sosa hizo aca libres alos pescadores desta isla asi xpanos como gentiles delas quales mas q son unos derechos q aca pagauan como los capitanes y tanadaxes y los cobravan vieron Gouernador nuevo roga ronle q les tornase el tal derecho lo q el mando q se viese en la chancilleria y como los mizeros pescadores sean pobres y los capitanes y Tanadaxos ricos y poderosos tengo miedo q suceda mal alos pescadores y ya se dio sentencia contra ciertos dellos y morauan en benestarimos. quasi la mayor parte dellos yo hize xpanos la guaresma pasada y no serian tan posos q no pasasen de cien almas alos q les jua dejar misa todos los domingos y tenaua uno.
{{PAGE:4}}
[Title]
Cartas Da India,
[Main text]
destos her no de casa comigo & les predicaua en su lengua hasta venir el y juan da bejra & me quito deste trabajo estos por la seccia & contra ellos dieron hu yeron todos. Moshe v.B. este capitulo amig el vaz vicario general & fue en estas partes & el le dara informacion de todas estas cosas y aya v.B. alla una prouision del rey N.s en q confirma lo q tenian de marrin a para bien destos pobres y su favor. Tambien aya de su A. & los officios dela India de interpretes naigues se den a los naturales xpanos destas partes y no a los genti les y v.B. acabe alla esto con su A. por amor de dios. encomiendome en sus santos sacrificios y oraciones. el sor dios guarde v.B. y toda la compª de
[Main text]
todo mal amen de goa a xxviij de noviembre de 1545
[Signature]
De su de voto /N.t. diego
[Marginalia — bottom left]
ferao este anno
Savao no Do1 |
| fulltext_translation | {{PAGE:1}}
[Page]
16
[Marginalia — top left]
M
[Stamp — top right]
[Illegible decorative stamp or seal]
[Main text]
Letter from Father Diego, concerning the foundation of the College of St Paul in Goa, addressed to Father Simão, dated 16 November 1545.
The peace of Jesus Christ our Lord be upon him and upon the entire Society bearing His holy name. May God the Father be praised for evermore, for—by His mercy—He deigned to remember the wretched Spaniards, to unite and gather them through His love and charity; and He willed that their customs—so alien and divergent from the original manner and mode of conduct—should be reformed. Likewise, it pleased Him to remember these Gentiles of India, whom the Church has long desired to bring to the knowledge and worship of His holy name; yet until now they have persisted, from the very beginning, in their manifold idolatries and monstrous customs, refusing—without exception—to submit to the light and authority of the law of Jesus Christ our Lord. Now, however, in these present times, certain Hindu kings and princes are converting of their own accord to our Holy Catholic Faith; and I trust that all other rulers—and the numerous great kingdoms throughout this India—will follow suit. For my part, I am convinced—and I believe our Lord God wills—that these peoples shall be saved, and those elsewhere reformed, each one through his service and endurance.
[Signature]
[Illegible: ~8 characters]
{{PAGE:2}}
**Title**
Letters from India
**Main Text**
This Company [i.e., the Society of Jesus] was chosen by divine providence to serve in this ministry—so vast and demanding is the spiritual harvest here—that God’s mercy towards it is abundant. Since this is so, He has selected you in such conformity with His will that, even before your arrival in these parts of Europe, you have already served with exceptional charity, willingly embracing hardships and bearing fruit most assuredly—so it is reported here—through the charity of Our Lord, who has moved you to offer up these trials out of love for Him. You are likewise called to extend favour and assistance to the abandoned peoples of these lands: souls lost, as it were, and dwelling in a condition which, strictly speaking, can scarcely be termed ‘life’ without the grace of God.
Knowing well the great zeal this Company demonstrates in this regard, I deem my own admonitions superfluous; thus, I conclude this discourse in silence.
Here arrived the exemplary religious men: Master Francisco M. Pablo and Brother Demansillas. Only Master Pablo remained in the city of Goa, at a newly established college—founded expressly for the propagation and consolidation of the Faith—whose official title is *Collegium Conversionis Fidei* [College of the Conversion of the Faith]. Yet the local populace has named it *São Paulo* (St Paul), after the patron to whom its first foundation was dedicated; hence some refer to it as the *Collegium Sanctae Fidei* (College of the Holy Faith), others as the *Collegium Sancti Pauli* (College of St Paul). In my view, this college was deliberately founded from the outset to serve the Society of Jesus—even before we had any certain knowledge of its establishment—suggesting that Our Lord ordained it thus, so that when His servants arrived, they would find both ready scope for apostolic labour and secure shelter wherein to gather, rest, and fortify themselves against the snares of the enemy. Thus strengthened and united within its walls, they might form a cohesive body capable of conquering the peoples of these Indies—not by force of arms, but through the invincible power of example, virtue, and sound doctrine—thereby overthrowing the dominion of the devil. May this be pleasing to God! It is therefore fitting that those entrusted to you should remain in this city and college, having been formally exhorted thereto by the Most Reverend Governor; and I myself concur fully—not only for the reasons stated above, but also to ensure proper governance and doctrinal instruction for the collegiate members resident here. Without their presence, such discipline could not be adequately maintained; with them, all proceeds with remarkable harmony and order—so much so that profound gratitude is due to Our Lord.
Yet the number of personnel remains insufficient to discharge all the duties incumbent upon this house; consequently, each member is required to undertake a double office. Thus, the Fathers were appointed to specific responsibilities: Father Nicolau Fao, elected Superior, fulfils the role of servant to all and teaches grammar to twenty youths, doing so with great and continuous diligence. Father António serves as sacristan and infirmarian, given the persistent presence of many sick persons in the house. Father João da Beira acts as porter, bearing his burdens with such patience and humility that he often seems to me like the angel who, with sword in hand, guards the gates of paradise. Master Pablo oversees the entire administration of the college; his vigilance and solicitude are so constant and penetrating that the very presence of the devil appears to flee from this college and its precincts. Thus, our college continues to grow steadily in virtue, sound doctrine, and fervour.
{{PAGE:3}}
[Page]
16
From the year 1545.
The number of converts has multiplied steadily—from good to better—until now these brothers have reached an age at which they are able to govern and bear spiritual fruit; their number stands at sixty, and continues to increase. Moreover, some of the elder among them already show clear promise of becoming truly exemplary men: several have begun to receive instruction, and many are now capable of reasoned discourse—indeed, some have already attained a sound grounding in grammar. It is therefore most necessary that this house be furnished from there with a pair of learned men—proficient in both the liberal arts and theology—and that these should be members of the Society [of Jesus], so that they may combine both virtue and learning. Elsewhere, learning alone carries no weight in the work we undertake here; for our purposes, letters without virtue are of no value whatsoever. Those scholars sent hence must not merely bear the title of ‘learned’, but must be genuinely and demonstrably so. Should Your Reverence deem my request excessive, I beg your pardon; yet it is born solely of my deep desire that this college should prosper well—and I place my hope in Our Lord that He will provide for this matter far more abundantly than I dare ask or imagine.
— Response: Direct those Fathers presently stationed here not to depart; and dispatch from there—as many as possible—others in their stead. For the harvest is great, and labourers are few. These Fathers entertain scruples, fearing they may fail to fulfil the duties you have assigned them; and I fear that, before the next monsoon season arrives, Fathers João da Beira and António may indeed depart. Were that to occur, this house would collapse entirely, and I—already advanced in years—would be left utterly disconsolate; for I am no longer equal to the labours required, nor can I serve here in any capacity beyond burdening the brethren with my infirmities and physical limitations. Age weighs heavily upon me, and I had wished to return to the Kingdom, entrusting these responsibilities to another who would cause less hindrance and distress. It grieves me deeply that this house should not be left in proper and stable order. I trust Your Reverence will take such diligent care of it, and make provision for it so wisely and thoroughly, that the whole of India may draw both edification and consolation therefrom—and I, too, shall share in that consolation.
Being unwell (which is why I have dictated this letter through another’s hand), and wishing to avoid undue prolixity, I add no further remarks—though I do append here certain necessary observations concerning the Spaniards and churches on this island:
Your Reverence should know that Martim de Sosa recently granted freedom to the fishermen of this island—both Christian and non-Christian alike. This liberation concerned certain customary dues previously levied upon them—dues analogous to those exacted by local captains and *tanadaxes* (i.e., native headmen or revenue officers). Upon the appointment of a new Governor, these impoverished fishermen petitioned him to rescind the levy; whereupon he ordered the matter to be examined in the Chancery. Yet, given that these fishermen are wretchedly poor, while the captains and *tanadaxes* are wealthy and powerful, I greatly fear adverse consequences for the former. Indeed, judgment has already been pronounced against certain of them—men resident in Benastarim. During last Lent, I myself instructed and baptised the majority of these fishermen; they numbered well over one hundred souls, and I was accustomed to celebrate Mass for them every Sunday, assisted by one catechist.
{{PAGE:4}}
**Title**
Letters from India
**Main text**
These men were staying in my house, and I preached to them in their own language until the arrival of Father João da Veiga and myself. Thereupon, they withdrew me from this duty—these individuals did so on account of the *seccia* [i.e., the *seccia* or *secção*, a colonial administrative division or jurisdictional district, here likely referring to the ecclesiastical or civil authority responsible for pastoral oversight], and, acting against them, they all departed.
Moses V.B. — this chapter was entrusted to the Vicar General, and he travelled to these parts; he will be able to provide you with full information concerning all these matters. Moreover, Your Grace should obtain there a royal provision (*provisão*) issued by His Most Serene Majesty the King (N.S. = *Nossa Senhora*, i.e., ‘Our Lady’, a conventional honorific prefix used in Portuguese royal documents of the period, here standing for *Nossa Senhora a Rainha* or more plausibly *Nosso Senhor o Rei*, though context suggests the latter is intended as a pious circumlocution for the monarch) confirming the rights and privileges previously granted to the aforementioned *marranos* [i.e., Jews forcibly converted to Christianity in Iberia and their descendants, many of whom settled in Portuguese Asia; the term is retained in scholarly usage with explanatory glossing, as it appears in the original and carries precise historical meaning] for the welfare and protection of these poor people.
Furthermore, Your Grace should ensure that appointments to the offices of interpreter (*intérpretes*) and *naigue* [a Portuguese transliteration of the Konkani *nayak* or Marathi *nayak*, denoting a local headman or community leader entrusted with liaison duties between colonial authorities and indigenous populations] in the Indian administration are conferred upon native Christians (*cristãos nativos*) of these regions—and not upon *gentios* [i.e., non-Christians, especially Hindus, used here as a formal administrative and religious category in Portuguese colonial discourse]. We earnestly entreat Your Grace to conclude this matter with His Excellency the Viceroy, for the love of God.
I commend myself to your holy sacrifices and prayers. May God preserve Your Grace and the entire Company [i.e., the Society of Jesus (*Companhia de Jesus*), whose members routinely referred to themselves collectively as *a Companhia*].
**Date**
From Goa, 28th November 1545
**Signature**
Your humble servant in Christ,
Dom Diogo
**Marginalia — bottom left**
*Ferao este anno* [‘They were ordained this year’]
*Savão no Do1* [i.e., *Savão no Domínio Primeiro*: ‘Savão in the First Dominion’, likely a marginal note identifying the location or jurisdictional designation of a specific ecclesiastical appointment or ordination; *Savão* is an early variant spelling of *São* (Saint), possibly referring to *São Paulo* or another titular church or parish; *Do1* abbreviates *Domínio Primeiro*, a term used in Portuguese ecclesiastical administration to denote the first of several territorial divisions under a bishopric or vicariate] |
| genre | Manuscripts |
| genre_facet | Manuscripts |
| hierarchy_browse | 49-IV-49{{{_ID_}}}zotero-coll-PI7XKZMA Jesuítas na Ásia. Collection{{{_ID_}}}zotero-coll-MPF9XDJZ |
| hierarchy_parent_id | zotero-coll-MPF9XDJZ zotero-coll-PI7XKZMA |
| hierarchy_parent_title | Jesuítas na Ásia. Collection 49-IV-49 |
| hierarchy_sequence | 0000 0000 |
| hierarchy_top_id | zotero-coll-WX87PJHD zotero-coll-WX87PJHD |
| hierarchy_top_title | News News |
| hierarchytype | Default |
| id | zotero-4HYRUCMQ |
| institution | zotero_group |
| last_indexed | 2026-09-24T07:28:05Z |
| latest_content_date | 2026-09-24T07:28:05Z |
| publishDate | 1545-11-18 |
| publishDateRange | 1545 |
| publishDateSort | 1545 |
| record_format | zotero |
| spelling | Carta del pe. M. diego que fue de los que fundaron el collegio de s. pablo en Goa para el pe. M. simon de xviij de nouiembre de 1545. This abstract describes a historically significant letter dated 16 November 1545, authored by Dom Diogo (identified in the signature as ‘Dom Diogo’ and marginalia as ‘Father Diego’), addressed to Father Simão, concerning the foundation and early administration of the College of St Paul—also known as the *Collegium Conversionis Fidei* and *Collegium Sancti Pauli*—in Goa. The document details the college’s establishment for the propagation and consolidation of the Catholic faith among Indian populations, its staffing structure under Jesuit leadership—including Fathers Nicolau Fao (Superior and grammar instructor), António (sacristan and infirmarian), João da Beira (porter), and Master Francisco M. Pablo (administrator)—and reports on the growth of local converts, numbering sixty by late 1545. It records administrative concerns including personnel shortages, appeals for additional learned Jesuit scholars proficient in theology and the liberal arts, colonial governance issues involving fishermen’s liberties granted by Martim de Sosa, ecclesiastical jurisdictional disputes, and recommendations for appointing native Christians—not Hindus (*gentios*)—to key liaison roles such as *intérpretes* and *naigue*. A supplementary note dated 28 November 1545 confirms the letter’s origin in Goa and reiterates urgent requests for stable Jesuit presence and royal provisions safeguarding *marranos* and indigenous converts. The text is a primary source for studying early Jesuit missionary strategy, Portuguese colonial ecclesiastical administration, and intercultural religious engagement in sixteenth-century India. Entry number 12 in catalogue "Jesuítas na Ásia" Manuscripts Portugal. Biblioteca da Ajuda 49-IV-49, fl. 15 1545-11-18 António (Jesuit sacristan) Borba, Pe. M.diogo de Catholic evangelisation India College of St Paul Goa Collegium Conversionis Fidei Collegium Sancti Pauli Dom Diogo Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction Dispute Father Simão Francisco M. Pablo Goa Jesuit missionary strategy João da Beira Martim de Sosa Nicolau Fao Portuguese Colonial Ecclesiastical Administration Rodrigues, Pe. M. Simão native Christian liaison roles {{PAGE:1}} [Page] 16 [Marginalia — top left] M [Stamp — top right] [Illegible decorative stamp or seal] [Main text] carta del p. Diego y fue delos y fundaron el colegio de S. Pablo en Goa para el p. Simon de 16 de noviembre de 1545. La paz de Jesu X. N. S. sea con él y con toda la compañía de su santo nombre, el Gt sea loado para siempre pues por su misericordia tuvo por bien de acordarse de los miserables spanos para los aunitar y recoger con su amor y caridad y quiso se formar los costumbres tan ajenos y diversos del primer modo y forma de proceder y también le plació acordarse de estos gentiles de la India los gles nica lo quisieron conocer y honrar su santo nombre hasta ora, siguiendo desde el principio de sus grandes maneras de idolatrías y costumbres monstruosas sin ninguna querer obedecer a la edad y claridad de la ley de Jesu X. N. S.: pues ahora en estos presentes tiros algunos Reyes y príncipes gentiles por sí mismos se convierten a nuestra Santa Fe Católica lo y espero harán todos los otros tipos de tales y tan grandes reynos como hay en esta India. Yo tengo para mí y Dios N. S. quieren de salvar estas gentes de aquí y reformar las de allá uno por su servicio sufrir [Signature] [ILLEGIBLE: ~8 chars] {{PAGE:2}} [Title] Cartas Da India. [Main text] esa vna faneta compa para della se servir eneste ministerio desta su tan copiosa mi sericordia y pues asi es g es para eso os escogio tan conformes asu quererivo luntad y enessas partes de europa lo seruis con tanta charidad cogiendo devos trabajos fruto contessimo segun aca se dize pecos por la charidad de agl sor g os mmaue asofrir esos prabaios por amor del guerais tambien socorer con vna favor y ayuda al desamparo destas perdidas gentes g enestas partes bienen si su Giuir se puede llamar vida. y por yo saber el mucho g vna compa desto tiene pareciendome ser escusadas mis amonestaciones pongo silencio a esta platica-. Aca aportaron los perfectos varones M. frco M. pablo y frco demansillas. y solo M. pablo quedo enesta ciudad de goa en un collegio g aca nueuam se hizo el gl se llama della conuersion dela fe pero la gente desta tierra le pusieron nombre s. pablo y s. pablo fue el nombre de su primera imposicion y asi unos lo llaman de s. fe y otros de s. pablo, Mi parecer es g este collegio se hizo luego determinadamente para vna compa antes g aca della tuvie gsemos alguna noticia parece g lo ordenaua a si dios nro s. para g quando sus siervos veniesen hallasen luego materia en g pudiesen obrar y amparo pa ra se auer de recoger y torre para della se auer de defender delas insidias desa tanas, para g haziendose enella fuertes juntos hiziesen cuerpo para della po der conquistar los pueblos destas indias derrocando conmyptmoso spu y fuerzas de eyemplo y ptudes las fuerzas del demonio y asi sera plaziendo adios y para eso auer de ser paracio bien atos y g v. B. aca embio quedaran enesta ciudad y collegio siendo para eso amonestados del sor gouernador y yo tambien fuy del mismo parecer asi por las causas dichas como para dar orden de biuir y doEtrinar los collegiales desta casa lo g sin ellos no se podia bien hazer y con ellos estar aqui esta todo con tanto concierto y orden g es mucho para dar gras adios N.S. Mas aun son pocos para faphir alo g enesta casa ay g hazer por lo gl les conuiene seruir doblados oficios. elegieron jentes si por mayoral al p. nico fao el gl sirue de ser siervo de todos y enseña gramatica a xx moços con mucho y continuo trabajo el p. antonio sirue de saeristan y enfermero por auer siempre en la casa muchos enfermos el p. iuan da beira sirue de portero y tiene enefo tanto mydaiog muchas vezes me parece ser como el angel g con la spa da guarda el parayso serenal. M. pablo tiene cuidado de todo y tiene tanto cuidado y vigilancia g cothella parece haze huir el demonio deste collegio y de sus terminos. y asi esta nro collegio creciendo en virtudes y buena doEtrina y ira. {{PAGE:3}} [Page] 16 [Main text] Do ano de 1545. multiplicando de bien en mejor hasta estos mros her°° venir a edad para poder yr reginar y hacer fructo el numero dellos es sesenta y siempre van multiplican do y algunos dellos q son mayores hazen muestra de auer de ser muy buenos hombres delos q les algunos predican y son ya razonables gramaticos sexa muy necesario prouerse de alla esta casa de un par de hombres letrados en ar tes y theologia y estos sean de la comp° por q tengan uno y otro s virtudes y letras q dotra man° aca ningun valor tienen persi las letras para el ne gocio de q tratamos y los letrados q uviere de venir sean tales q no se con ten solatn conel nombre de letrados mas q realm° lo sean y si a v.R. le pareciere q yo pido mucho perdoneme por q el deseo q tengo desta collegio pro ceder bien me lo haze hazer y espero en la Nra del sor q el prouera en esto mas largamente delo q yo deseo y pido. — R. mande alos p° q aqui estan q no se uan de aqui y embie de alla otros los mas q pudiere por q la uina es muy grande y ay falta de obreros. ellos tiene |
| spellingShingle | Carta del pe. M. diego que fue de los que fundaron el collegio de s. pablo en Goa para el pe. M. simon de xviij de nouiembre de 1545. António (Jesuit sacristan) Borba, Pe. M.diogo de Catholic evangelisation India College of St Paul Goa Collegium Conversionis Fidei Collegium Sancti Pauli Dom Diogo Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction Dispute Father Simão Francisco M. Pablo Goa Jesuit missionary strategy João da Beira Martim de Sosa Nicolau Fao Portuguese Colonial Ecclesiastical Administration Rodrigues, Pe. M. Simão native Christian liaison roles |
| title | Carta del pe. M. diego que fue de los que fundaron el collegio de s. pablo en Goa para el pe. M. simon de xviij de nouiembre de 1545. |
| title_autocomplete | Carta del pe. M. diego que fue de los que fundaron el collegio de s. pablo en Goa para el pe. M. simon de xviij de nouiembre de 1545. |
| title_full | Carta del pe. M. diego que fue de los que fundaron el collegio de s. pablo en Goa para el pe. M. simon de xviij de nouiembre de 1545. |
| title_fullStr | Carta del pe. M. diego que fue de los que fundaron el collegio de s. pablo en Goa para el pe. M. simon de xviij de nouiembre de 1545. |
| title_full_unstemmed | Carta del pe. M. diego que fue de los que fundaron el collegio de s. pablo en Goa para el pe. M. simon de xviij de nouiembre de 1545. |
| title_short | Carta del pe. M. diego que fue de los que fundaron el collegio de s. pablo en Goa para el pe. M. simon de xviij de nouiembre de 1545. |
| title_sort | carta del pe. m. diego que fue de los que fundaron el collegio de s. pablo en goa para el pe. m. simon de xviij de nouiembre de 1545. |
| topic | António (Jesuit sacristan) Borba, Pe. M.diogo de Catholic evangelisation India College of St Paul Goa Collegium Conversionis Fidei Collegium Sancti Pauli Dom Diogo Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction Dispute Father Simão Francisco M. Pablo Goa Jesuit missionary strategy João da Beira Martim de Sosa Nicolau Fao Portuguese Colonial Ecclesiastical Administration Rodrigues, Pe. M. Simão native Christian liaison roles |
| topic_autocomplete | António (Jesuit sacristan) Borba, Pe. M.diogo de Catholic evangelisation India College of St Paul Goa Collegium Conversionis Fidei Collegium Sancti Pauli Dom Diogo Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction Dispute Father Simão Francisco M. Pablo Goa Jesuit missionary strategy João da Beira Martim de Sosa Nicolau Fao Portuguese Colonial Ecclesiastical Administration Rodrigues, Pe. M. Simão native Christian liaison roles |
| topic_facet | António (Jesuit sacristan) Borba, Pe. M.diogo de Catholic evangelisation India College of St Paul Goa Collegium Conversionis Fidei Collegium Sancti Pauli Dom Diogo Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction Dispute Father Simão Francisco M. Pablo Goa Jesuit missionary strategy João da Beira Martim de Sosa Nicolau Fao Portuguese Colonial Ecclesiastical Administration Rodrigues, Pe. M. Simão native Christian liaison roles |
| url | https://macau-legacy.usj.edu.mo/docs/4HYRUCMQ/viewer_4HYRUCMQ.html |
| zotero_collection_key | MPF9XDJZ PI7XKZMA |