Thousands Flock in Berhampur for Queen of the Mission Feast

Berhampur, Odisha, November 30, 2025: A surge of more than 15,000 devotees filled the Queen of the Mission Cathedral Parish on Thursday as Berhampur marked the 97th Feast of the Queen of the Mission, one of the region’s most prominent Marian gatherings. Pilgrims from across Odisha and neighbouring states travelled to the coastal city, joining around 50 priests and 50 religious nuns for the annual celebration.

Large crowds began assembling early in the day despite the cold, with the cathedral grounds quickly turning into a focal point of prayer and song. Bishop Sarat Chandra Nayak, who led the celebration, drew attention to Mary’s central role in Christian faith, describing her as the “Mother of the Church” and “Queen of the Mission in Heaven.” He said the feast continues to attract thousands because of the deep spiritual connection devotees feel towards Mother Mary.

During the homily, Bishop Niranjan Sualsingh of Sambalpur revisited the Church’s teaching on the Immaculate Conception, referring to Pope Pius IX’s 1854 declaration that affirmed Mary’s preservation from original sin. He told the congregation that Mary’s role as the Mother of God places her above saints and angels and gives her a unique and revered place in Christian belief.

The feast also revived attention to the origins of the Queen of the Mission devotion, which traces back to the 1830 apparitions to Saint Catherine Labouré in Paris, when the Miraculous Medal was revealed. The medal remains a widespread symbol of Marian devotion, worn by millions who seek Mary’s intercession.

A candlelight procession through the streets of Berhampur drew some of the largest crowds of the day. As night fell, streams of devotees carrying lighted candles moved through the city, singing hymns and praying the Rosary. The glowing procession briefly transformed the roads of the Silk City into a river of light, a sight many described as moving and memorable.

The event reaffirmed Berhampur’s place as a significant centre of Marian devotion in Odisha. With thousands turning out in a strong show of faith, the feast once again highlighted the enduring appeal of Mother Mary’s message of compassion and hope among the Catholic community.

By Purushottam Nayak

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