Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Vailankanni (Fides Service) - Thousands of Catholics and people of other faiths from all over India made the pilgrimage to Vailankanni Marian Shrine on the occasion of the annual Marian Festival at the Basilica of Our Lady of Health in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. The shrine attracts not only Catholics but also beleivers of other faiths who regard it as a national place of spirituality and healing.
Local civil authorities guaranteed security and services for the thousands of pilgrims as usual. The event last several days and Masses were celebrated in Hindi, English, Tamil, Marathi, Malayalam, Telugu and Kannada.
The Shrine of Our Lady of Health at Vailankanni in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu is one of the most famous Marian shrines in Asia. Here in the 16th century Our Lady appeared to a Hindu boy. The shrine, which attracts more than 1.5 million visitors every year, including many non Christians, is called the Lourdes of the East because of the miracles reported here i.
During the December 26 tsuanami disaster last year Vailankanni shrine in the area affected was a point of reference for Caritas and religious institutions as a centre of shelter and distribution of aid for the homeless victims of the giant wave. Shortly after the disaster a special requiem Mass was celebrated at the Shrine for the victims and their families by Archbishop Lopez Quintana papal nuncio in India.
(PA) (Agenzia Fides 9/9/2005 righe 27 parole 273)
