By Ajinkya Parkhe for BIS Mumbai

Don Bosco was often heard to say, “Have faith in Mary, and you will see what miracles are.”  Among the 14 parish zones and 5 villages under the care of St Anne’s parish, Ahilyanagar, the zone at Kothi inaugurated their newly built Marian Grotto, on December 16, 2025. The faithful of this zone, showed their generosity in making this a reality, by not only putting in monetary contributions, but also showing great courage in standing for this cause.

 Set in an indigent part of the city, the area is a mixture of twisting lanes and web of wires. The members of the ‘Kothi’ area are simple and devoted people. Their little community chapel is simple and almost spartan in appearance. It serves as a place for basic Christian community gatherings, rosaries and masses. They are surrounded by people from other religions. This initiative to set up a grotto, displays the local community’s staunch faith, and their passion to proclaim Christ through various ways. This project saw many obstacles from local area representatives and financial difficulties. However everyone was convinced of the fact that Mary is indeed accepted by many people of other faiths by the very fact that she is a mother. At last, the chapel is now blessed with a grotto dedicated to ‘Mary Help of Christians.’

 The grotto was blessed by the Rector and Parish Priest, Fr McEnroe Lopes SDB, during the annual carol singing before Christmas. By using the occasion of the ‘carol singing,’ this event brought the entire community together to share in the Christmas spirit.

 Fr Lopes, in his words of encouragement and appreciation, emphasised that it is by Mary’s blessings and intercession that our Christian community flourishes. He reiterated that this grotto should serve as a reminder to constantly seek God’s blessings. As one passes by the grotto daily, simple mental prayers and gestures of respect, would help to improve one’s faith.

 The inauguration of the grotto was followed by the carol singers who brought the Christmas cheer with their energy and melodious voices.