.png)
Grace Unfolds as Flag Hoisting Opens St. Mary’s Basilica Feast 2025
- BangaloreArchdiocese
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
The grounds of St. Mary’s Basilica, Shivajinagar, came alive on August 29, 2025, as the Inaugural Day Flag Hoisting set the tone for the annual Novena and Feast in this special Jubilee Year of 2025. With the blessings and guidance of Most Rev. Dr. Peter Machado, Archbishop of Bangalore, the celebration unfolded in an atmosphere that was both deeply prayerful and festive, drawing together thousands of devotees united in faith and devotion to the Blessed Mother.
The solemn ceremony was led by the Main Celebrant, Rt. Rev. Arokiaraj Satis Kumar, Auxiliary Bishop of Bangalore, who hoisted the festal flag amid resounding hymns and prayers, before imparting the Eucharistic blessing upon the faithful. Rt. Rev. Joseph Susainathan, Auxiliary Bishop of Bangalore and Rector of the Basilica, blessed the flag and invited the devotees to walk together in faith throughout the Novena and Feast.
The celebration was graced by Shri Rizwan Arshad, MLA of Shivajinagar Constituency, as Chief Guest. His support and collaboration, marked by thoughtful planning and encouragement, were warmly acknowledged, as he played an important role in ensuring the smooth organization of the feast in the heart of the city.
Rev. Fr. Arockiaswamy Sebastin, Parish Priest of the Basilica, extended a heartfelt welcome to the gathering, thanking the clergy, dignitaries, and faithful for their prayers and contributions. A highlight of the evening was the release of the 2026 Basilica Calendar, a reminder of the Church’s journey of faith, devotion, and service to the community. The large and prayerful assembly testified to the enduring love for Mother Mary and the abundant graces received through her maternal intercession.
The program was gracefully coordinated by Rev. Fr. Suresh, Assistant Parish Priest, who compered the evening with devotion and precision. The faithful were further enriched by the homily delivered by Fr. Clement Deep and Fr. Sunny Richard, reflecting on the Annunciation and the ‘Yes’ of Mother Mary. They invited all to imitate her faith-filled response to God’s call in their daily lives.
The Inaugural Flag Hoisting was not merely a ritual, but a spiritual moment that lifted countless hearts in gratitude, joy, and hope. As the Jubilee Novena and Feast continue in the days ahead, the faithful of Bangalore look forward to a blessed time of renewal, prayer, and unity under the loving patronage of Our Lady of Good Health, Shivajinagara.
