by BISMumbai Correspondent

The upheaval unleashed by COVID-19 continues to create anxiety, fear and distress. The upside down, topsy-turvy world-altering catastrophe is affecting every sphere of life, taken for granted, by many across the globe. The hyper-connected, globalised village is reawakening to newer paradigms of human vulnerability. Amidst various relief outreach measures, in the stay-at-home, work-from-home, stay-safe and stay-healthy cautious living, it is faith and hope that has sustained most. Prayer, online masses, and novenas, ensure that we journey together to overcome this catastrophe.

This year, the annual Novena to Mary Help of Christians was not celebrated in the Shrine of Don Bosco's Madonna, due to the COVID-19 lockdown restrictions. However, the MumbaiSalesians' YouTube Channel premiered the novena daily, starting 16 May and concluding on 24 May. Those desirous of participating in, subscribed to and had a prayerful experience of the close accompaniment of the Blessed Mother.

The solemn festive Holy Eucharist for the Solemnity of Mary Help of Christians, on 24 May each year, is also unfortunately a no-show this time around, due to the extended lockdown restrictions. Besides, the Solemnity this year is to be celebrated on Monday 25 May, since Sunday 24 May, is the Solemnity of the Ascension of Our Lord.

The MumbaiSalesians' YouTube Channel will premiere the Mass on 25 May, from the Crypt of the Shrine of Don Bosco's Madonna-Matunga, at 08:00 a.m. [IST] for those wishing to participate. The Mass can also be viewed on the MumbaiSalesians' FaceBook Page and on the websites, Shrine of Don Bosco's Madonna and Mumbai Salesians May Mary Help of Christians continue to be our intercessor and protector in these times of travail, comforting us in this vale of tears.