Pilgrimage Deepens Faith and Fellowship
Visitation Senior Parishioners journey to SFA and CSJE in prayer and community spirit
A Grace-Filled Pilgrimage to St. Francis of Assisi and St. John the Evangelist
On 16 October 2025, members of the Visitation Senior Parishioners (VSP) embarked on a one-day pilgrimage to the Church of St. Francis of Assisi (SFA) and the Church of St. John the Evangelist (CSJE). The journey, marked by reflection, prayer, and fellowship, offered participants a chance to deepen their faith and renew their sense of community.
The morning began at SFA with registration, followed by the Way of the Cross and light refreshments. The pilgrims were also treated to an engaging explanation of the church’s beautiful stained-glass windows and the inspiring story of St. Francis of Assisi, which brought his spirit of humility and love for creation vividly to life. The veneration of relics provided moments of quiet devotion, and the celebration of the noon Mass was filled with gratitude and reverence. After lunch, the pilgrims proceeded to CSJE for the second leg of their spiritual journey.
At St. John’s, the group was warmly received by Fr Gerard Theraviam and his team, who offered a simple yet meaningful introduction to the church. The pilgrims learned about the cathedral’s rich heritage through a welcome video and presentation on its history, which helped them appreciate its sacred beauty and legacy. The programme continued with visits to the tombs of Cardinal Soter and Bishop Vendargon, viewing the icons of the Way of the Cross, and praying the Rosary at Our Lady’s grotto. These moments of prayer and reflection allowed everyone to experience God’s presence in a spirit of peace and gratitude.
The pilgrimage experience culminated two days later, on 18 October 2025, when the VSP animated the Sunset Mass at the Church of the Visitation. Clad in their distinctive purple VSP t-shirts, the senior parishioners brought colour, joy, and vitality to the liturgy. Fr.Kenneth Gopal commended the seniors for animating the mass
Together, the pilgrimage and the Mass reflected the heart of VSP — a community walking in faith, growing in friendship, and living the Gospel with love and purpose.
