Media Release
Shimoga, Sep 8: The ninth day of the novena in preparation for the feast of Our Lady of Health, Harihara Matha, at the Minor Basilica, Harihara, began with the praying of the Holy Rosary led by Fr Alvine Stanislaus, manager and correspondent of Lourdes Boys School, Davanagere.
The Rosary was followed by a solemn procession and floral homages offered to Harihara Matha. Thereafter, the Novena prayers were led by the Basilica rector and parish priest, Fr George K A.
Dr Francis Serrao SJ, bishop of Mysore, celebrated the Holy Eucharist. In his homily, he reflected on the theme, 'Mother Mary, Mother of Widows and Widowers'.
Bishop Francis Serrao based his reflection on Exodus 22:21–27 and Luke 7:11–15. He explained how Mother Mary deeply understands the pain, struggles and loneliness of widows and widowers, having herself experienced widowhood. Her life of commitment, dedication, courage and responsibility, he said, should be an inspiration to all Christians.
The bishop further emphasized that Harihara Matha is a place of consolation and hope, especially for those who are marginalized and pushed to the peripheries of society. Mother Mary consoles all those who approach her with pain, sorrow and suffering, leading them towards hope and renewed faith.
At the conclusion of the Holy Eucharist, Fr George K A, rector of the Minor Basilica, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to bishop Francis Serrao SJ for celebrating the Eucharist and delivering the inspiring homily. On behalf of the diocese of Shimoga, Fr George K A honoured the bishop.
Following the Mass, Fr Franklin D'Souza and Fr Pius D'Souza led the healing prayers and Eucharistic Benediction. The priests then prayed over the numerous pilgrims who had gathered, seeking the intercession, consolation and healing grace of Our Lady of Health.
The ninth day of the novena thus became a profound experience of prayer, consolation and healing, as the faithful entrusted their lives, families and struggles to the loving intercession of Harihara Matha, Our Lady of Health.