Thousands Join Annual Diocesan Pilgrimage at Oriyur Basilica, Tamil Nadu

Oriyur, Sivagangai, 6 October, 2025: The 37th annual diocesan pilgrimage of the Diocese of Sivagangai was held with great solemnity and devotion on October 5 at the Basilica of St. John de Britto, popularly known as the Red Sand Saint, in Oriyur. The celebration was presided over by Bishop Lourdu Anandam of Sivagangai.

In keeping with the Universal Church’s Jubilee Year 2025 celebrations, this year’s pilgrimage was organised under the theme “Let’s be Christ-centred pilgrims.” Thousands of devotees from different parishes across the diocese took part in the spiritual gathering.

In his homily, the Bishop recalled that “the faith which took root in the Diocese of Sivagangai was nurtured through the missionary efforts of five Jesuit fathers, whose spiritual labour continues to bear fruit to this day.” He shared a brief history of their evangelisation work and expressed gratitude for their sacrifices, further explaining the spiritual significance of the Jubilee Year.

Referring to his earlier message at the inauguration of the diocesan Jubilee Year, Bishop Anandam encouraged the faithful to forgive others’ debts as much as possible, or at least to waive the interest, as a practical expression of living the Jubilee spirit.

The offerings collected during the Mass will be directed towards the Ananda Midday Meal Scheme, a diocesan initiative that provides daily meals to elderly individuals living alone in selected areas.

The pilgrimage included special prayers for the Jubilee Year, for the beatification of the Servant of God Louis Leveil, and for rain, before the Bishop imparted his final blessing.

Bishop Anandam presented awards to the top performers in the Diocesan Catechism Examinations for 2024–2025 and distributed prizes to Bible competition winners. A special recognition was given to Ms. Jovitta from Vembathur Michaelpattinam Parish, who handwrote the entire Holy Bible and presented it to the Bishop, receiving much admiration for her devotion.

Catholic Connect Reporter

Pictures: Ananda Communications YouTube Channel