Patna: Queen of the Apostles’ Church, Kurji Parish, inaugurated a special 10-day festival in honour of Mother Mary, the patroness of the parish. The festival, that falls in May, traditionally dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary worldwide, began with great devotion and enthusiasm.The celebrations commenced with the ceremonial flag hoisting amid joyful chants of “Hail Mary” on Friday. On the first day, the Christians gathered to remember the dear departed of the parish and their families. A rosary was recited at the graveyard, followed by a special blessing of the graves. The gathering then proceeded to the church for the Novena prayers and Solemn Mass.Reverend Fr Vimal Kishore SJ, provincial of the Patna Jesuits, presided over the inaugural Solemn Mass. A large number of devotees participated in the celebration with religious fervour. The liturgy on the first day was led by members of the Kurji Christian Colony and Magadh Colony, two of the parish zones.Every evening during the 10-day festival, the devotees from different zones of the parish will lead the Rosary at 5.30pm, followed by Novena prayers and Solemn Mass. Each day is dedicated to a specific intention, with special prayers offered for women, children, senior citizens, teachers, healthcare professionals, consecrated persons, the sick and needy, and other groups.The festival will conclude on May 10, with a Solemn Eucharist celebrated by Archbishop Emeritus William D’Souza. Cultural programmes will be held in the evening to mark the grand finale.
