Thousands gather at Madhu to take part annual August festival

Both Bishops of Chilaw Wimal Siri Jayasuriya and Mannar Bishop Emmanuel Fernando led a joint service at this year's August festival at Madhu, Mannar on August 14, 2024. Pix: Northeastern Monitor

Thousands of Catholic devotees across the country took part in the annual August festival of the National Shrine of Our Lady of Madhu, Mannar on Thursday (August 14). At least 700,000 devotees took part in the ceremony. 

Along with Bishop of Chilaw Wimal Siri Jayasuriya, Mannar Bishop Emmanuel Fernando led a joint service followed by the procession of our Lady's statue. Churchgoers were also given blessings by priests and clergy who gathered at one of the sacred destinations of the Sri Lankan Catholic community.

Mannar District Secretariat, Bishop House of Mannar and other government authorities ensured adequate facilities were provided for devotees at the shrine. (Northeastern Monitor/ August 16/ 2024)