NEWS

Thousands Gather at Mawlai for Annual Sacred Heart Pilgrimage
The Sacred Heart Shrine at Mawlai witnessed a profound outpouring of faith and devotion as nearly 10,000 pilgrims converged for the Annual Pilgrimage in Honour of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Hosted by Sacred Heart Theological College, the much-anticipated event drew faithful not only from the Archdiocese of Shillong but also from neighbouring dioceses of Nongstoin and Jowai.
Presiding over the solemn Eucharistic Celebration was Most Rev. Bernard Laloo, D.D., Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Shillong, who urged the faithful to remain anchored in the love of Christ and to be authentic witnesses of hope and mercy in today’s troubled world.
The pilgrimage transformed the Mawlai shrine grounds into a vibrant mosaic of prayer, hymns, and heartfelt silence. Pilgrims from all walks of life gathered to renew their devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus — a wellspring of divine love and consolation.
A poignant highlight of the day was the afternoon Eucharistic Adoration and Benediction Service led by the animation group United for Christ. Fr. Varickasseril Jose, SDB, delivered a stirring reflection on the theme “Pilgrims of Hope,”encouraging the faithful to find strength and direction in the Sacred Heart amidst life’s uncertainties. The rite of Benediction, by Bishop Laloo, brought the sacred observance to a deeply reverent close.
Religious houses and institutions enriched the liturgical experience, each animating the adoration hours with soul-stirring hymns, meditative reflections, and moments of deep silence. Their collective presence symbolized the unity of the Church in prayer and mission.
The liturgy found a melodic anchor in the voices of the Choral Evangelists, whose spiritual music elevated the atmosphere and invited participants into a more profound communion with the divine.
The Fathers and Brothers of Sacred Heart Theological College devoted themselves to every detail of the day — from meticulous planning to seamless execution — creating a prayerful and hospitable environment for all.
The pilgrimage stood as a powerful testament to a living faith, one that rekindled hearts with the love of Christ and inspired pilgrims to journey forward as beacons of hope in a world longing for healing and peace.