On September 28th, 2024, the Syro-Malankara Catholic community in the United Kingdom embarked on their annual pilgrimage to the Basilica of Our Lady of Walsingham, a place steeped in both English and Christian heritage. This year’s pilgrimage was particularly special as it marked the 94th Reunion Anniversary celebrations of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church. Over 700 faithful participated in the pilgrimage led by His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Thomas Mor Koorilos, the Secretary of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Synod and Metropolitan Archbishop of Tiruvalla, who graced the pilgrimage with his spiritual leadership and celebrated a solemn Holy Qurbono (Mass).
The village of Walsingham, often referred to as “England’s Nazareth,” is home to the famous Basilica of Our Lady of Walsingham, which has been a destination for Christian pilgrims for centuries. Walsingham’s spiritual significance dates back to 1061, when Lady Richeldis de Faverches had a vision of the Virgin Mary, instructing her to build a replica of the Holy House of Nazareth. Since then, the shrine has been a beacon of Marian devotion, attracting pilgrims from all over the world. The basilica, part of the Roman Catholic National Shrine, continues to be a place of deep prayer, reflection, and miracles.
The Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, deeply rooted in the West Syriac Rite, places a special emphasis on devotion to the Mother of God, making this annual pilgrimage particularly meaningful. The faithful gathered at 10:30 AM at the Walsingham Annunciation Churchyard, where the event commenced with an opening prayer. The day’s events were organised under the careful direction of Fr. Kuriakose Thadathil, UK Special Pastor and Coordinator, who extended a warm invitation to all faithful to join in the pilgrimage.
Following the prayer, a Rosary procession led the pilgrims to the Basilica, where they prayed in honour of Our Lady of Walsingham. The afternoon featured a con-celebrated Holy Qurbono at 2:00 PM, presided over by His Grace Mor Koorilos. Lunch was served at 12:30 PM, allowing the participants to come together in fellowship. The day’s events concluded with the pilgrims reflecting on the enduring message of Marian devotion, a common thread that unites Christians from across the world.
This year’s pilgrimage also benefited from the organisational efforts of several committees. Ronnie Jacob, the National Council General Secretary, noted that these committees worked tirelessly to ensure the success of the pilgrimage. The pilgrimage concluded at 5:00 PM, as the faithful departed with renewed spirits, strengthened by the prayers and reflections offered in the sacred space of Walsingham.
For the Syro-Malankara Catholic community, this pilgrimage represents a spiritual journey that ties together their Eastern traditions with the rich Western heritage of Walsingham. As they gathered in prayer at the Basilica, the pilgrims were reminded of Pope Leo XIII’s prophecy, “When England returns to Walsingham, Our Lady will return to England.” This pilgrimage is a significant reminder of the role that the Virgin Mary plays in uniting Christians across rites and cultures.
The pilgrimage to Our Lady of Walsingham is not just a local event but part of a greater movement of Christian devotion. For the Syro-Malankara Catholic community, it underscores their commitment to nurturing their faith and tradition while engaging with the wider Christian world. The Basilica, with its rich history of pilgrimage, and Walsingham’s deep Marian heritage, offer the perfect environment for this blending of traditions, deepening their spiritual connection to both their Eastern roots and the universal Church.
The pilgrimage continues to be a pivotal event for the Syro-Malankara community in the UK, celebrating their faith, unity, and Marian devotion, ensuring that this annual event remains a key spiritual journey for generations to come.
Address: Roman Catholic National Shrine, Friday Market Place, Walsingham, NR22 6EG.
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