Mary’s Birth is God’s gift to Humanity, says Cardinal Anthony Poola

Hyderabad, September 9, 2026: The birth of Mary was described as a divine gift to humanity as Cardinal Anthony Poola, Archbishop of Hyderabad and President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI), reflected on her humility, prayer and role in God’s plan of salvation during the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary celebrations at the Historic Shrine of Our Lady of Good Health, Khairatabad.

Cardinal Poola presided over the Pontifical Mass at the shrine and delivered his homily through song, lifting up the petitions of the devotees and invoking God’s blessings upon them.

Reflecting on Mary’s Magnificat, he recalled her words: “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant.”

The Cardinal described Mary as an embodiment of humility and prayer and highlighted the significance of her birth in the Christian understanding of salvation.

“In Mary’s birth, God prepared the dawn before the rising of the Son, Jesus Christ,” he said.

Earlier, Shrine Rector and Parish Priest Father Michael Selvaraj welcomed pilgrims gathered for the traditional birthday Mass at the altar of Our Lady of Good Health.

“Your presence makes this celebration truly joyful and faith filled. May Our Lady of Good Health lovingly accompany you, strengthen your faith, bless your families, and bring healing, peace, and hope into your lives,” he said.

Large numbers of devotees from Telangana, Andhra Pradesh and neighbouring states began arriving at the shrine from midnight. People from different communities and religious backgrounds participated in the celebrations, offering flowers, candles, coconuts and silver articles as expressions of gratitude and petitions.

A grand car procession carrying the Miraculous Statue of Mother Mary was held in the evening as part of the celebrations.

The festivities were coordinated by Father Michael Selvaraj, along with assistant priests Father Anthony Muthu and Father Aduri Fathima Dwijesh, members of the Parish Council, Legion of Mary, Society of St Vincent de Paul and volunteers. Civil and police authorities also supported the arrangements for the large gathering of pilgrims.

By Catholic Connect Reporter