Tag: Marian Devotion

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Our Lady of Home Gets ‘Spiritually Holy Welcomed’ in MLA Joshua De Souza House in Mapusa

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Written by Intern Queeny George M.H , Team Allycaral

In a heartfelt expression of devotion and tradition, Mapusa Constituency MLA Joshua De Souza  welcomed Our Lady of Home into his residence, marking a spiritually significant moment for his family and the broader Christian community in Goa. The visit is part of a long-standing tradition celebrated throughout the state, where the statue of the Blessed Mother moves from one home to another during the months leading to the New Year.

“I welcome Mother Mary into my home today, a moment that strengthens our faith and keeps alive a treasured tradition. It is truly a blessing to have our Blessed Mother visit every household, filling our lives with peace, grace, and protection. May her presence continue to bless our families and keep us steadfast in faith,” said MLA De Souza.

Known as the Queen of Home, Our Lady of Home is a symbol of unity, hope, and spiritual protection in Christian households. Referred to lovingly as the Mother of strengthening homes, she holds a special place in the hearts of Goan Catholics. Her presence is believed to bring calm, faith, and a renewed spiritual connection within families.

Each September, this sacred tradition begins as the image of Our Lady of Home makes its way across Christian households, a journey that continues until the arrival of the New Year. This act of devotion is not only a spiritual practice but also a means of bringing communities together, reviving bonds and reinforcing shared values of faith and family.

The visit of Our Lady of Home to MLA Joshua De Souza’s house signifies the role of public figures in upholding cultural and religious practices that define Goan identity. It also serves as a reminder of the strength that communities draw from shared traditions, especially in times when unity and peace are most needed.

As the Blessed Mother continues her journey through homes in Goa, her presence carries a universal message of hope, compassion, and unwavering faith.

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Vailankanni’s Annual Feast Begins: A Spiritual Journey for Thousands of Devotees from Goa and Beyond

Tanisha Cardozo

The annual feast of Our Lady of Good Health in Vailankanni, Tamil Nadu, has begun, marking the start of 10 days of devotion, prayer, and celebration. This sacred event, which attracts thousands of faithful devotees from across India and the world, is especially significant for the many pilgrims who journey from Goa each year.

The festivities began with the traditional flag-hoisting ceremony, signaling the commencement of the religious celebrations. For the next nine days, the grounds of the Basilica will be filled with Novena prayers and Holy Masses as devotees come to seek blessings, express their gratitude, and strengthen their faith. Each year, pilgrims from all walks of life undertake this sacred journey, some traveling in large groups by packed trains, bound for Tamil Nadu. Among these are hundreds of devoted pilgrims from Goa, some of whom make this trip as part of a longstanding family tradition.

For Maria Fernandes, a pilgrim from Margao, the Vailankanni feast is more than just a religious event. “Coming to Vailankanni every year fills my heart with peace,” she says. “It’s not just about seeking blessings; it’s about feeling connected to Our Lady and sharing this faith with thousands of others.”

The Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health, often referred to as the “Lourdes of the East,” is renowned not only for its stunning architecture but also for the countless miracles reported by devotees. It has become a beacon of hope for those seeking healing, comfort, and divine intercession. The shrine is visited by pilgrims with a variety of petitions and thanksgiving offerings, each one seeking to deepen their connection with the divine.

The celebrations will culminate on September 8, with the Feast of the Nativity of Mary—one of the most significant days in the Marian liturgical calendar. On this day, special Holy Masses and solemn processions will take place, drawing even larger crowds to the Basilica. The streets of Vailankanni will come alive with prayers, hymns, and cultural programs, creating an atmosphere of devotion, unity, and joy.

Local authorities, along with church organizers, have made elaborate arrangements to accommodate the massive influx of devotees, ensuring smooth transportation, safety, and accommodation throughout the feast period. For the pilgrims, this annual journey is not just about visiting a holy place but about renewing their faith, seeking blessings for their loved ones, and experiencing a deep sense of community.

As the feast continues until September 8, the Basilica of Vailankanni remains a powerful symbol of unwavering faith, drawing people together in prayer and gratitude. Vailankanni’s place as one of Asia’s most revered Marian shrines is firmly established, and the celebrations this year only reinforce its enduring spiritual significance.