241st Holy Cross Pilgrimage at Kalvaru-Pezar Church on April 15

Mangaluru: The Kalvaru-Pezar Church, under the auspices of the Mangalore Diocese, is all set to observe the 241st Holy Cross Pilgrimage on April 15, 2025. This historic spiritual journey, which began 240 years ago on Ash Wednesday, has since evolved into an annual tradition, drawing thousands of faithful from across the region.

This year’s pilgrimage will be celebrated under the theme:
“Pilgrims of Hope Under the Shadow of the Holy Cross.”

The day’s events will commence at 9:00 AM with sessions of scripture reflection, praise and worship, and intercessory prayer, led by members of the Charismatic Renewal Movement.

At 3:00 PM, the Chaplet of Divine Mercy will be recited, followed by the Solemn Mass at 3:30 PM, presided over by the Most Rev. Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangalore Diocese.

After the Eucharistic celebration, a spiritual reflection on the Way of the Cross will be delivered by Fr Denis D’Sa, Public Relations Officer of the Udupi Diocese and parish priest of Thottam Church. Devotees will then have the opportunity to venerate the Holy Relic of Jesus.

With nearly 7,000 devotees expected to participate, organizers have made elaborate arrangements to ensure the smooth conduct of the event. Facilities for transportation and meals will be provided, and all services will be carried out in a disciplined and prayerful manner. The day’s program is scheduled to conclude by 9:00 PM.

This annual pilgrimage, rooted in Lenten devotion, has grown over the centuries into a powerful expression of faith and hope in the community, continuing to inspire generations of believers.

The press conference was attended by Parish Priest Fr. Lawrence Ronald D’Souza, Vicar Forane Fr. Rudolph D’Souza, Media Advisor Elias Fernandes, Vice President Anil Peres, Secretary Philomena Fernandes, Zone Representatives Pramila Peres, Walter Monteiro, Alvin D’Souza, and others.