Orissa, 15,000 faithful celebrate the feast of Mary, Queen of the Mission (Photos)

by Purushottam Nayak

The celebration is one of the most important in India. Usually, Christians come from all over the country, but this year, the rupee recall created problems. A procession with candles made its way through the streets of Berhampur in memory of Mary’s apparition to Saint Catherine Labouré.

Berhampur (AsiaNews) – Thousands of Christians attended the ceremony honouring Mary Queen of the Mission in the cathedral of Berhampur, Orissa. About 15,000 worshippers came from all over India, despite the difficulties caused by the rupee recall.

"Thousands of other people wanted to participate and show their devotion to Mary,” said Fr Praful Nayak, pastor of the cathedral, “but the elimination of 500 notes and 1000 rupees prevented them from coming to receive the Lord’s blessing.”

The celebration took place yesterday in the shrine dedicated to the Mother of Jesus, Redeemer and Messiah. The ceremony is one of the most important events of its kind in India and Asia.

Walking in procession, the faithful carried candles in memory of the apparition of Our Lady to Saint Catherine Labouré. Fr Nayak noted that the Virgin appeared to the French saint on 27 November 1830 whilst she was praying.

"Our Lady,” he said, “gave Saint Catherine a mission that caused her great suffering. But she also told her that she would overcome all the difficulties, as well as the moments of discouragement and hardship."

"Our hearts,” he added, “are for the Immaculate Conception and for the glory of God. Our mission is the mission of the Church, which is to lead people to Christ. Mother Mary gave everyone the responsibility to be like Saint Catherine Laboure and proclaim peace and harmony."

As the sun began setting, the faithful and consecrated people – including 70 priests and 90 nuns – marched through the city’s streets, accompanying the vigil with songs and prayers.

Mgr Sarat Chandra Nayak, bishop of Berhampur, emphasised Mary’s role in humanity’s salvation. "Mother,” he said, “had nine months to prepare herself for the mission of giving birth to Jesus. During the wait she had high expectations. Similarly, we must prepare for the period of Advent leading to the birth of Christ."