Deanery Feast of Our Lady of Fatima Draws Thousands of Faithful to Patiala Pilgrimage Centre
Our Lady of Fatima Church, Patiala, a diocesan pilgrimage centre, celebrated the Deanery Feast of Our Lady of Fatima, bringing together over 2,000 faithful, more than 50 priests, and 70 religious sisters for a solemn and joyful celebration of faith and Marian devotion.
The Solemn Holy Eucharist was presided over by His Lordship, Most Rev. Dr. Sahaya Thatheus Thomas, Bishop of the Simla-Chandigarh Diocese, together with Priests, religious sisters, and faithful from various parishes of the deanery, gathered in a spirit of prayer and communion to honour Our Blessed Mother and seek her maternal intercession.
The Eucharistic celebration was followed by a grand religious procession with the beautifully decorated statue of Our Lady of Fatima. Adorned with flowers and lights, the statue was carried in procession amid prayers, hymns, and Marian devotion, creating an atmosphere of reverence and spiritual joy. The large gathering of clergy, religious, and laity reflected the deep devotion to Our Lady and the unity of the Catholic community across the deanery.
As a diocesan pilgrimage centre, Our Lady of Fatima Church holds a special place in the spiritual life of the faithful, offering a sacred space for prayer, reflection, and devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary.
The Deanery Feast provided an opportunity for the faithful to renew their faith, deepen their Marian devotion, and strengthen their bonds of fellowship with one another.
Fr. John Thatheus, Dean and Parish Priest, expressed his appreciation to all the participating parishes, priests, religious sisters, and faithful for their generous support, active participation, and cooperation in making the celebration a meaningful and memorable occasion.
The collective efforts of the clergy, religious, and laity contributed greatly to the smooth and prayerful conduct of the Eucharistic celebration and procession.
The feast was a visible expression of faith, unity, and communion within the Simla-Chandigarh Diocese. It renewed the faithful's commitment to follow the example of Our Blessed Mother in humility, obedience, and wholehearted dedication to Christ.
May Our Lady of Fatima continue to intercede for the faithful, bless every parish and religious community, and lead the entire Simla-Chandigarh Diocese ever closer to her Son, Jesus Christ.
Fr. Arul Raj
Assistant Parish Priest
