Boriziny (Port-Berge), Madagascar: The Divine Mercy parish church in Port-Berge was declared as the Diocesan Divine Mercy Sanctuary by Bishop George Varkey, MEP of Port -Berge, on 16 April, the Divine Mercy Sunday. On April 15, 2023, a day before the declaration, Cardinal Desire TSARAHAZANA, Archbishop of Toamasina (Tamatave), the northern diocese of Madagascar also celebrated the Holy Mass in order to prepare for the great solemnity of Sunday.
Bishops, priests, and religious laity from five archdioceses in Madagascar arrived on Friday evening. Conferences, Divine Mercy Rosary, confessions, and adoration were also held throughout the day.
The conference on St. Maria Faustina's life and the Divine Mercy presented by the Polish Apostolic Nuncio, Mgr. Tomasz Grysa, was much appreciated by everyone.
The celebration culminated with the blessing of the Jesus Divine Mercy Mosaic and a large crucifix, which was followed by the proclamation of the church as the Divine Mercy Diocesan Sanctuary.
The mosaic, made of different coloured stones acquired from Madagascar took roughly a year to finish on the facade of the church.
Bishop George Varkey Puthiyakulangara of Port-Berge in Madagascar personally ascended on a ladder to bless the Mosaic. The Cardinal later blessed a large crucifix that was installed before the procession advanced towards the altar.
After the welcome and Apostolic salutation, Bishop George proclaimed the church as the Divine Mercy Diocesan Sanctuary. The celebration included nine bishops, with the Cardinal serving as the Main Celebrant.
Bishop Marie Fabien Raharilamboniaina, President of the Bishops Conference of Madagascar, also blessed a home for the Divine Mercy priests during the celebration.
The presence of individuals from different dioceses in Madagascar and their willingness to travel long distances to participate in the celebration shows their faith and confidence in God's mercy.
The declaration of the Divine Mercy Church in Port-Berge as the Divine Mercy Diocesan Sanctuary is a significant milestone for the Catholic community in Madagascar and the Indian Ocean region.