In his homily, Archbishop Thomas highlighted the late Pope Francis's deep Marian devotion. He recalled how the Pope, before every pastoral visit abroad, would first entrust the journey to the Blessed Mother and, upon his return, offer a bouquet of flowers in thanksgiving at the revered image of Salus Populi Romani (Protectress of the Roman People) in the Basilica of Saint Mary Major—his final resting place.

Drawing from a poignant moment in history, the Archbishop recounted how a venerated image of the Virgin Mary was carried in solemn procession through plague-stricken Rome, miraculously bringing healing and saving countless lives. In the same spirit, he said, Our Lady of Happy Voyage of Bandel continues offering comfort and healing to the thousands of pilgrims seeking her intercession, strength, and hope.

The evening saw a moving Marian procession with the recitation of the Holy Rosary and hymns in Mary's honour, which concluded by the banks of the Hooghly River. Fr. Mukul Mondol, a Redemptorist priest, spoke with warmth of the maternal care of Mary, who never abandons her children. Inspired by her unwavering faith, Fiat, and enduring love, he reminded the faithful that the Mother given to us at the foot of the Cross walks with us through every sorrow, trial, and burden, always interceding on our behalf. The procession concluded with Eucharistic Adoration, filling hearts with peace and gratitude.

This year's May Feast held special significance as the Church prepares for the Jubilee Year 2025. On the evening of May 3, a special felicitation ceremony honoured jubilarians celebrating 25, 50, and even 60 years of commitment—whether in Marriage, Religious Life, or priestly ministry. The celebration included words of appreciation and a vibrant cultural programme, lovingly organized by the parishioners, with young people leading the initiative.

The next day, Sunday, May 4, Archbishop Thomas D'Souza administered the Sacrament of Confirmation to twelve boys and girls. The Archbishop reflected on God's boundless mercy and love in his homily. He invoked the image of Saint Peter, who—despite past failures—responded to Jesus' thrice-repeated question, "Do you love me?" with undaunted love and faith. The Archbishop called on the newly confirmed and all present to live courageously as witnesses to Christ's life, death, and resurrection.

The two-day feast concluded with a hymn dedicated to Our Lady as the faithful departed with renewed faith, hearts full of hope, and a deepened sense of community and solidarity.

The May Feast of Our Lady of Happy Voyage remains one of the most anticipated and spiritually enriching events for the faithful in Bengal. Drawing pilgrims from across communities, castes, and creeds fosters a living witness of shared faith and belonging. Families from all walks of life gather in this historic Marian shrine, united in their devotion.

Since 1928, the Salesians of Don Bosco have faithfully served as custodians of Bandel Church, a cherished Marian pilgrimage centre in West Bengal founded by Portuguese missionaries in 1599. In recognition of its spiritual and historical significance, Saint Pope John Paul II elevated the Church—dedicated to Nossa Senhora do Rosário (Our Lady of the Rosary)—to Minor Basilica in 1999, during its 400th anniversary.

Today, the Basilica, known as Bandel Church, is a beacon of faith and a proud emblem of India's Christian heritage.