Media Release

Mangaluru, Mar 30: The Infant Jesus Shrine, Bikarnakatte, organized a unique and spiritually enriching walking pilgrimage titled 'Carmel Hill to Holy Hill' on the evening of Palm Sunday, marking the beginning of Holy Week.

A large number of Christian faithful participated in the event, which began from the Shrine premises and concluded at Holy Hill, Maroli.

As the pilgrims walked along the main road, they prayerfully meditated on the Stations of the Cross, reflecting on the final moments of Jesus Christ - from His arrest to His burial. A large cross was reverently carried by the participants, symbolizing their devotion and unity in faith.

Meaningful reflections were offered at each station, helping the faithful enter more deeply into the mystery of Christ’s passion. The Rosary was also recited throughout the journey, with special prayers offered for peace in the world, particularly in the context of ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.

This event, the first of its kind in Mangaluru city, aimed to foster spiritual renewal and communal prayer during the sacred season of Lent.

Upon reaching Holy Hill, Fr Melwin D’Cunha, superior of St Joseph’s Monastery, imparted a blessing to the gathered faithful with the sprinkling of holy water. Fr Stifan Perera, director of the Infant Jesus Shrine, expressed gratitude to all who participated and contributed to the success of the pilgrimage.

Also present on the occasion were Fr Deep Fernandes, vice rector of St Joseph’s Monastery, along with members of the Bethany Sisters and the Sisters of St Ann’s Providence Convent.

Palm Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week, the most sacred time in the Christian liturgical year, culminating in the celebration of the Easter Triduum - Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday.

Holy Hill, located at Maroli, is a well-known place of devotion. A large cross was erected there following a spiritual experience of Paul Rodrigues and was blessed on September 24, 1997, by the late Fr Francis Rebello. Since then, it has become a popular destination for personal prayer and meditation. Situated on a hilltop, it offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere and remains open to devotees daily from 5:00 am to 7:00 pm.