Pilgrimage to Velankanni Begins from Irendellaiparai Parish
DINDIGUL, August 22, 2024 – The parishioners of Irendellaiparai, Dindigul, embarked on their annual pilgrimage to Velankanni on foot today, marking the culmination of a month-long spiritual preparation.
The journey began with a solemn Holy Eucharist celebration presided over by Fr. Thomas CMF, the Parish Priest. Following the mass, Fr. A. Xavier CMF, the Co-Pastor, led a special blessing prayer for the pilgrims. The pilgrimage officially commenced with a car procession heading towards Velankanni, accompanied by more than 100 faithful from the parish. This spiritual journey is seen as an opportunity for the participants to renew their faith and experience a deeper connection with their beliefs.
In preparation for this significant event, parishioners engaged in fasting and prayer for the past month. This period of spiritual discipline is considered an essential part of readying themselves for the physical and spiritual demands of the pilgrimage.
“This pilgrimage allows one to touch the holiness of God,” said Fr. Thomas CMF, emphasizing the spiritual significance of the journey. The annual foot pilgrimage to Velankanni, a renowned Marian shrine in Tamil Nadu, is a long-standing tradition for many Catholic communities in the region. It serves as a testament to the enduring faith and devotion of the pilgrims. As the procession left Irendellaiparai, well-wishers gathered to see off the pilgrims, offering prayers for their safe journey and spiritual fulfillment.
Reported by
Fr. M. Thomas CMF
