I am here as a co-pilgrim” Archbishop tells Marian Devotees

Bengaluru: “I am here as a co-pilgrim with you to this Shrine of Our Blessed Mother and not just as Archbishop” Archbishop Peter Machado told a mammoth gathering of over 20,000 Marian devotees  gathering in and around St. Mary’s Basilica in Bangalore.  He was presiding over the inauguration of the Novena in preparation for the feast of the Nativity of Our Blessed Mother.  Prior to hoisting the flag, the Prelate prayed at the Shrine and was flanked by several priests to the Flag-post where the sacred flag was hoisted followed by a Eucharistic Benediction.

The Archbishop spoke on Mother Mary’s moment of Grace at the temple when Simeon prophesied that the child of her womb would be destined for the rise and fall of many.  He invited the devotees to contemplate on the faith, fervour and resignation of Mother Mary to the will of God in all circumstances.  The Prelate also expressed much appreciation over the faith of the people.  Though rain-clouds loomed large over the gathering, nothing seemed to deter them from flocking to the Shrine, many came equipped with rain-gear.

The annual feast at the Shrine will be celebrated on 8th September.