Annual feast of Our Lady of Snows Basilica begins with flag-hoisting ceremony
The 444th annual feast of Our Lady of Snows Basilica in Thoothukudi began with a traditional flag-hoisting ceremony. Thousands of devotees attended the event, which will culminate in a car procession on August 5.
Why it matters
The event is a significant cultural and religious milestone for the local community, drawing large crowds and government officials.
Thousands of devotees participated in the flag-hoisting ceremony of Our Lady of Snows Basilica held here on Sunday that marked the commencement of the 444 th annual feast of the shrine.
The first day of the festival began with rosary at 4:30 a.m., followed by a series of Holy Masses under the Bishop of Thoothukudi RC diocese Most Rev. A. Stephen.
Following the Holy Mass, Most. Rev. Stephen carried the festival flag in a procession around the basilica, accompanied by traditional music, and hoisted the flag. As the flag was raised, thousands of devotees chanted Ave Maria in unison.
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