Pilgrimage Experiment 2023

“Spirit is willing but the body is weak”

We reached Harihar on September 5, 2023.  As it was the feast day of Mother Teresa of Kolkata, Bishop Francis Serrao of Shimoga diocese was invited to preside over the Mass. During this occasion, the novices had the opportunity to visit the Missionaries of Charity Sisters'. They also conversed with the residents of that ashram which helped them realize the true purpose of their vocations. 

The aforementioned Bible slogan, “Spirit is willing but the body is weak,” became very familiar to all of us throughout the entire journey. Our 'Paada Yatra' commenced at 3 a.m. from Davangere railway station to the Minor Basilica at Harihar. The novices were full of energy throughout the journey, reciting the Rosary on the streets, which infused them with spiritual energy to continue their pilgrimage experiment.

 The novices stayed at Harihar for a few days, bearing witness to the faith of the people, interacting with them, assisting in the liturgy with their melodious voices in the choir, and spending time in intercession to our Mother for their future formation.

At the end of this pilgrimage experiment, the novices felt that the void within them had been filled by our Lady of Health, 'HARIHAR MATHE.’ We are indebted to our facilitators for this life-transforming opportunity in our life.