Varghese Chakkalakkal, Bishop of Calicut Diocese, will declare the St. Teresa Shrine in Mahe as a Basilica on February 24, in recognition of its importance to the Catholic community. This move is expected to attract more pilgrims and visitors to the shrine, further boosting tourism in the area. The announcement was made through a press release, which also mentioned the three-day festival that will accompany the declaration. The festivities will begin with a public event on February 24, which will be inaugurated by N. Rangaswamy, Chief Minister of Puducherry.
The St. Teresa Shrine has a rich history and is considered a sacred place by the Catholic community. It has been a site of devotion and prayer for many years. The declaration of the shrine as a Basilica is a significant milestone for both the local community and the Catholic Church. It signifies the special spiritual significance of the shrine and its importance as a place of worship.
During the three-day festivities, various religious ceremonies and programs will be organized to celebrate the declaration. A.N. Shamseer, Kerala Assembly Speaker, and Ramesh Parambath, Mahe MLA, will also be present at the event. The declaration of the St. Teresa Shrine as a Basilica is expected to have a positive impact on the local economy, as it will attract more visitors and pilgrims to Mahe. This, in turn, will benefit the tourism industry and related businesses.
Basilicas are important landmarks in the Catholic faith. They are churches that have been granted special privileges by the Pope due to their historical, architectural, or spiritual significance. The designation of a church as a Basilica is seen as a mark of honor and is often accompanied by celebrations and increased attention. The St. Teresa Shrine will join the ranks of other Basilicas around the world, becoming a symbol of faith and devotion.
The declaration of the St. Teresa Shrine as a Basilica on February 24 is an important moment for the Catholic community in Mahe and beyond. It highlights the deep-rooted faith and devotion of the people and recognizes the significance of the shrine in their spiritual lives. The three-day festivities will not only be a celebration of this achievement but also an opportunity for people to come together in prayer and fellowship. The St. Teresa Shrine will continue to be a place of solace and inspiration, welcoming visitors from near and far.