by Fr. Ajay D’monte for BIS Mumbai 

On Saturday, August 10, 2024, three Salesian parishes from Ahmednagar set out on a pilgrimage to Haregaon, a revered shrine. Approximately three hundred faithful, accompanied by Salesian priests from each parish, began their journey at 1 p.m. During the trip, the pilgrims recited the holy Rosary and sang spiritual hymns. 

Upon their arrival, Fr Dominic Rosario, the parish priest of Haregaon gave them a warm welcome. Each of the three parishes celebrated the Holy Eucharist in turn. After the warm reception, the pilgrims entered the shrine, immersing themselves in its spiritual ambience.

Each year, during August and September, Marian devotees from the Nashik diocese make their way to Haregaon to receive the blessings of Matmauli. In the month of August, the Saturday novena animations are hosted by various parishes within the diocese. September sees both city and village devotees embark on a Pada-yatra to Haregaon, where they sing traditional bhajans and Marian hymns throughout their journey.

In the evening, a procession in honor of Mother Mary featured the recitation of the holy Rosary, followed by the novena and Holy Eucharist. Fr Vishwas Pereira, the main celebrant, delivered a homily that highlighted God's preparation for bringing His Son into the world. He drew a parallel between the Old Testament's Ark of the Covenant and Mary as the new Ark of the Covenant in the New Testament, emphasizing the role of mothers in the family.

The St. Anne's Church Choir, led by Fr Ajay D’monte, enriched the Eucharist with their melodious singing. Fr Rosario expressed his gratitude and appreciation to the Salesian priests and the devotees of Mother Mary for their participation in the celebration. He noted that when Salesians animate, they bring life and enthusiasm to their service, much like Don Bosco.

Following the Holy Eucharist, the priests were honored by the Haregaon parishioners, and an agape meal was shared by all devotees and priests. 

Mr Pradeep Rathnaparkhe shared his personal experience of finding peace and blessings during his visits to Haregaon. Ms Selvina Nelson expressed her thanks to the parish priests for accompanying them on this spiritual journey. The faithful also conveyed their gratitude to the Blessed Mother for ensuring their safe return home.