26-07-2025
Our Lady of Snows Basilica annual feast begins
The 443rd annual festival of Our Lady of Snows Basilica in Thoothukudi began with flag hoisting on Saturday.
The annual feast of the Basilica is celebrated for 11 days from July 26 to August 5 with gaiety and devotion every year. Accordingly, the feast commenced on Saturday.
Following the flag procession on Friday evening, Bishop of Thoothukudi Roman Catholic Diocese Rev. Stephen Antony hoisted the flag to mark the commencement of the 11-day feast and celebrated the Holy Mass in the church. The gathering of devotees chanted Ave Maria in unison. As a symbol of peace, a large number of white doves were released.
After the devotees offered milk and fruits around the mast, Rev. Fr. Albert Johnson, Principal, Pastor Lenssen Polytechnic College, Kuthenkuly, placed the golden crown on the statue of Our Lady of Snows during the special prayers conducted at noon. The milk and fruits were distributed to the devotees.
In view of the event, traffic was temporarily suspended on beach road in the morning. Under the supervision of Superintendent of Police Albert John, extensive security arrangements were made to ensure smooth conduct of the celebrations.
The event was attended by Social Welfare and Women Empowerment Minister P. Geetha Jeevan, Thoothukudi Collector K. Elambahavath, Mayor Jegan Periyasamy, SP Albert John and thousands of devotees.
