Banglades: Parish honors Our Lady of Lourdes with special feast

A parish in the Diocese of Rajshahi in Bangladesh celebrated the feast of Our Lady of Lourdes with devotion and prayer.

It also marked the occasion with a solemn observance that included a pilgrimage, the lighting of candles, and the recitation of the Rosary.

On February 14, parishioners gathered for the "Way of the Cross" and participated in the Holy Eucharist, presided over by Bishop Sebastian Tudu of Dinajpur.

In his homily, Bishop Tudu encouraged the faithful to express gratitude to Mother Mary, who was chosen to bear Jesus.

"Mother Mary wishes to visit us in our lives and to invite her; there is no alternative to praying the Rosary daily," he said.

He further urged the faithful to follow the virtues of Mother Mary, encouraging mothers to be exemplary figures in their families and children to develop a habit of praying the Rosary regularly.

Parish Priest Father Dilip S. Costa welcomed the faithful and emphasized the role of Mary, Queen Mother of Lourdes, as a guide and protector in daily life.

"Mother Mary is always with us, and we observe this occasion with deep spiritual devotion. We come to offer our prayers and vows to Mother Mary, the healer, seeking her blessings," he said.

Among the attendees was Milon Rozario, who shared his testimony, stating, "For two years, I have participated in this celebration in Bonpara. I have experienced many blessings through my prayers to Mother Mary. I firmly believe that sincere prayers to Our Lady of Lourdes never go unanswered."

Established in 1940, the Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in the Diocese of Rajshahi continues to serve as a beacon of faith and devotion, drawing believers who seek comfort and intercession through the Blessed Virgin Mary.