Pics: Stanly Bantwal
Media Release
Davanagere, Aug 30: All roads led to the Minor Basilica of Our Lady of Health in Harihar on August 30, 2023.
The annual feast of Harihar Matha Basilica commenced with the hoisting of the flag by Dr Francis Serrao SJ, Bishop of the Diocese of Shimoga, and S S Mallikarjun, state minister of mines & geology and horticulture. Welcoming the dignitaries and the assembly, the rector of the Basilica, Fr George K A, extended his greetings.
Launching the nine-day celebrations, Bishop Francis Serrao SJ urged the faithful to embrace the values epitomized by Mother Mary, who consoles the afflicted.
A multitude of devotees from diverse walks of life, some adorned in saffron attire, bore witness to the occasion. The sudden influx of pilgrims disrupted the city's traffic flow. Numerous diocesan priests joined Bishop Francis Serrao SJ in concelebrating the high mass. The homily revolved around the theme: "The life of Mother Mary as a wellspring of inspiration for women."
Subsequent to the Eucharistic celebration, priests imparted blessings to devotees by placing their hands on their heads. Following these spiritual observances, the faithful participated in the "Anna Santharapane" (Food).
Prayers resonated for farmers, rainfall, and leaders. State Minister S S Mallikarjun inaugurated the event and co-hoisted the flag alongside His Grace Bishop Francis Serrao SJ. He extended his well wishes to all devotees and offered prayers for the collective welfare. The occasion also featured a felicitation for Mr. Nandigavi Shrinivas, a dynamic Congress youth leader. The successful orchestration of this event was credited to Gnanaprakash D, the parish secretary.