Bengaluru: The annual novena and feast of St. Mary’s Shrine Basilica, popularly known as St. Mary’s Church, Shivajinagar, will be celebrated from August 29 to September 8, culminating in the grand Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary on September 8.
One of Bengaluru’s historic and revered Catholic shrines, the basilica is expected to draw thousands of devotees and pilgrims from across Karnataka and neighbouring regions. Known for its strong Marian devotion, the shrine attracts people from different communities and faiths who come to seek the intercession and blessings of Mother Mary.
The nine-day novena will begin on August 29. The customary flag hoisting will be held every day at 5.30pm, followed by sermons, Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament and Holy Mass.
Masses will be celebrated daily from 5.30am to 9pm in different languages, allowing devotees from various linguistic communities to participate in the celebrations.
Special masses, chariot procession on September 8
On the feast day, September 8, three special masses will be celebrated at Russell Market Square in Kannada, Tamil and English.
The highlight of the celebrations will be the grand chariot procession of Mother Mary, which will be flagged off at 5.30pm.
With a large turnout of pilgrims expected during the novena and feast, elaborate arrangements have been made to ensure the smooth and safe movement of devotees.
The Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) will operate special buses, while designated parking facilities, including arrangements at the adjoining BMRCL premises, are expected to help ease traffic congestion and facilitate the movement of pilgrims.
Archbishop of Bangalore Most Rev Dr Peter Machado has invited the faithful to participate in the novena and feast celebrations and seek the blessings of Mother Mary.
