Oriyur: The Basilica of St. John de Britto, fondly known as the shrine of the Red Sand Saint, witnessed a sea of pilgrims as thousands of faithful from across the Diocese of Sivagangai gathered for the 37th Annual Diocesan Pilgrimage. The grand spiritual event, held on October 5, was presided over by Bishop Lourdu Anandam, who led the congregation in prayer, thanksgiving, and reflection on the theme “Let’s be Christ-centred pilgrims,” echoing the global spirit of the Jubilee Year 2025.
The day began with pilgrims arriving in large numbers, many traveling from distant parishes on foot or by special parish vehicles, united in faith and devotion. The sacred atmosphere of Oriyur, where St. John de Britto was martyred, added a deep spiritual resonance to the celebration.
In his homily, Bishop Anandam offered a heartfelt reflection on the missionary legacy that shaped the Diocese of Sivagangai. He recalled the tireless efforts of the five Jesuit missionaries who first sowed the seeds of faith in the region, describing their zeal and sacrifice as “the living foundation of a diocese rooted in Gospel witness.” He urged the faithful to draw inspiration from their example, reminding them that “every believer is called to be a pilgrim of faith anchored in Christ, walking in mercy, and proclaiming love through action.”
The Bishop also elaborated on the spiritual meaning of the Jubilee Year, calling it a “time of reconciliation, renewal, and grace.” Referring to his earlier pastoral message, he invited the faithful to express the Jubilee spirit tangibly by forgiving debts or waiving interest wherever possible. “The Jubilee calls us to mercy in action,” he said, “to restore justice and compassion in our relationships and communities.”
One of the most moving gestures of the day was the announcement that all offerings collected during the pilgrimage Mass would support the Ananda Midday Meal Scheme, a diocesan initiative providing daily meals for elderly individuals living alone. The Bishop described this outreach as “an act of love that extends the Eucharistic spirit into the lives of those most in need.”
Special prayers were offered for the Jubilee Year, the beatification of the Servant of God Louis Leveil, and for much-needed rain in the region. The liturgy concluded with Bishop Anandam imparting a solemn apostolic blessing, invoking peace, grace, and renewal for all pilgrims.
As part of the closing ceremony, the Bishop honored the top scorers of the 2024–2025 Diocesan Catechism Examinations and presented awards to winners of the Bible competitions. The congregation was especially moved when Ms. Jovitta from Vembathur Michaelpattinam Parish was recognized for her extraordinary devotion she had handwritten the entire Holy Bible and presented it to the Bishop, earning resounding applause and admiration.
The pilgrimage concluded with hymns of thanksgiving as pilgrims departed from the Basilica, carrying with them a renewed spirit of faith and fraternity. The Oriyur Pilgrimage 2025 stood as a testimony to Tamil Nadu’s vibrant Catholic heritage and the enduring power of collective faith an embodiment of what it truly means to be “Christ-centred pilgrims.”