Many Hearts, One Trust: The Infant Jesus Shrine, Vivekanagara that Touched Lives Deeply

The Annual Feast of the Infant Jesus Shrine was celebrated in a deeply prayerful and joyful spirit, as thousands of faithful gathered like one family around the Infant Jesus. From early morning, people streamed into the Shrine with folded hands and hopeful hearts, bringing their joys, worries, and silent prayers. The atmosphere was simple, warm, and filled with trust in the loving presence of the Infant Jesus.

The Holy Eucharist became the heart of the feast. The church was filled to the brim, and many stood outside, following the Mass with deep attention and devotion. There was a quiet holiness in the air—people listening, praying, and placing their lives into God’s hands. For many, it was a moment of renewal, peace, and reassurance that they were not alone.

Speaking on the occasion, the Parish Priest, Fr John Anthony, gently reminded the faithful that the Infant Jesus calls everyone to trust God like a child trusts a loving parent. The Administrator, Fr Martin Anil, expressed heartfelt thanks to all who served quietly behind the scenes, noting that the beauty of the feast lay in the faith and cooperation of the people.

One of the most touching moments of the feast was the grand chariot procession, blessed and inaugurated by Cardinal Anthony Poola. As the chariot moved slowly through the streets amid hymns and prayer, Cardinal Poola shared, “When we take the Infant Jesus into our streets and homes, we are reminded that God walks with us in our daily struggles and joys.” The procession became a moving prayer, drawing people together in quiet reverence.

Reflecting on the feast, Archbishop of Bangalore Most Rev. Dr. Peter Machado spoke with pastoral warmth, saying, “This Shrine is a place where wounded hearts find comfort and tired souls find rest. The Infant Jesus invites us to live with love, mercy, and kindness.”

Sharing a reflective note, Archbishop Emeritus Most Rev. Dr. Bernard Moras said, “For years, people have come here with faith and tears, and they have gone back with hope. That is the quiet miracle of this Shrine.”

The Auxiliary Bishops also shared simple yet meaningful thoughts. Rt. Rev. Arockiaraj Satis Kumar noted, “God comes to us gently, like a child, teaching us closeness and compassion.” Rt. Rev. Joseph Susainatha added, “This feast shows us a Church that listens, walks together, and prays together.”

The presence of Shri NA Harish, MLA of Shantinagar, reflected the Shrine’s bond with the wider community. He shared, “This Shrine gives hope to many, beyond religious boundaries. It teaches us to care for one another.”

Many devotees were drawn to the newly designed Shrine of the Infant Jesus, pausing quietly to light candles and offer prayers. Its simple beauty helped people slow down, reflect, and feel closer to God. The voices of the faithful captured the true spirit of the feast. One devotee said softly, “I came with many worries, but I am going home with peace.” Another shared, “Here, we feel that the Infant Jesus listens to us.”

The Annual Feast concluded not as a grand event alone, but as a gentle reminder of faith lived simply and sincerely. The Infant Jesus Shrine once again stood as a home of prayer—where hearts are comforted, faith is strengthened, and hope quietly grows.