THE SILENCE OF THE SHRINES

                                                       The Silence of the Shrines

Embarking on a pilgrimage is not just a journey of miles but of faith, reflection, and discovery. Our recent pilgrimage on the 8^th and 9^th March, 2025, in Kerala was a deeply enriching experience, taking us to some of the most revered, IMS retreat centre, shrine of Mother Mary, each holding profound spiritual significance. From sacred shrines dedicated to Mother Mary to missions serving the most vulnerable, and exhilarating house boat adventure, this journey was a blend of faith, service and joy.

An exhilarating Houseboat and Speed boat experience.

Our spiritual journey took an adventurous turn when we had a houseboat cruise through Kerala’s mesmerizing backwaters. The lush green landscape, serene waters, a gentle sway of the houseboat provided a perfect retreat for reflection and relaxation. Adding to the thrill was speedboat ride, where the rush of the wind and splashing water brought out our adventurous spirit. This experience was a refreshing contrast to our spiritual endeavours, making the pilgrimage even more memorable.

Our journey began with a visit to the Shrine of Mother Mary, a place where devotion and divine presence filled our hearts with peace, as we stood before the sacred alter, offering our prayers, we felt the warmth of Mary’s embrace, a powerful reminder of intercession in our lives. The shrine, with its serene ambiance, was a perfect place to reflect on our faith and seek blessings.

We next visited St. Sebastian Church, at Arthungel, a renowned pilgrimage site in Kerala. This historic church, dedicated to St. Sebastian, is known for its grand feast and deep rooted faith among devotees. The towering structure left us in awe, while the peaceful surroundings added to the solemnity of our prayers.

One of the most astonishing experiences of our pilgrimage was the visit to the Thangi Church, where a statue of Jesus is said to have growing hair. This miraculous phenomenon has brought devotees from far and wide, strengthening their faith.

One of the most touching aspects of our journey was our visit to two mission centres Kripasanam shrine of Mother Mary which is a miracles abode where 300 mentally ill and abandoned women are rehabilitated by the IMS Fathers. The name itself means “Fountain of Mercy”, and indeed the place radiated divine grace. Pilgrims from different backgrounds come here seeking healing, solace, and strength. The sight of devoted worshipers, lost in prayer, was truly moving and left us with a sense of profound peace.

These missions, run with selfless love and dedication, serve as sanctuaries of hope. Meeting these women, listening to their stories, and witnessing the compassion with which they were cared for was a deeply emotional experience. It reminded us of the true essence of religious life serving those in need.

As we concluded this pilgrimage, we carried home more than just memories; we carried renewed faith, spiritual fulfilment and a deeper sense of gratitude. Visiting sacred shrines, witnessing miracles, serving the less fortunate, and experiencing the beauty of nature- all these moments came together to create an unforgettable journey.

In the silence of the shrines, I hear the whispers of the divine. This pilgrimage was not just about the places we visited; it was about the transformative experience that strengthened our faith, touched our hearts, and reminded us of the power of prayer, service and God’s unending love. 

Sr. Jessy Pookoden

Tanmaya Province