By Wilfred DSouza
MONROVIA,DECEMBER 13, 2024 (CISA) – The Feast of the Immaculate Conception, one of the most significant Marian celebrations in the Roman Catholic Church, was marked with great devotion and grandeur at the National Marian Shrine in Virginia, on the outskirts of Monrovia. The solemn feast, universally celebrated on December 8, commemorates to the dogma that the Blessed Virgin Mary was conceived without any stain of Original Sin in preparation for becoming the Mother of God, the Son Jesus Christ.
Thousands of Catholics and non-Catholics from across Liberia and neighbouring regions gathered for this deeply spiritual pilgrimage, led by the Metropolitan Archbishop of Monrovia, Most Rev Gabriel Blamo Jubwe.
The significance of the shrine is deeply rooted in Liberia’s history. During the country’s civil war, thousands of people sought refuge at the site. Despite the rebels passing through the area, no lives were lost, a fact many attribute to divine intervention. In gratitude, the late Archbishop Michael Francis of Monrovia founded the shrine, dedicating it to Our Lady Queen of Peace.
Since its establishment in 2000, the site has drawn faithful pilgrims annually and is officially recognized as a National Pilgrimage Centre by the Catholic Church in Liberia.
A Night of Vigil and Prayer
Pilgrims began arriving on the evening of December 7 to participate in an all-night vigil. Led by Fr Tersoo Gwaza SJ from the Society of Jesus, alongside other religious. The vigil featured Praise and Worship, the Word of God, Adoration, Divine Mercy prayers, Healing, and the Anointing of the Holy Spirit. The night concluded with the Holy Eucharistic Celebration, leaving participants spiritually uplifted. Attendees expressed their joy and gratitude for the opportunity to set aside their daily obligations to engage in such a meaningful celebration of faith.
Procession and Devotion
The following day began at 8:30 a.m. with a procession from Moulton Corner to the Queen of Peace Shrine. Thousands of pilgrims recited the Rosary as they made their way to the shrine, a tradition organized and led by Fr Boniface B. Florkiah of Christ the King Church, with assistance from pious groups. Upon reaching the shrine, the devotion continued with the Stations of the Cross, led by religious members from various congregations, including the Salesians of Don Bosco, the Society of Divine Word, and the Sisters of the Holy Family, among others.
Short reflections delivered by priests and religious leaders during the Stations of the Cross resonated deeply with the pilgrims, offering moments of spiritual introspection and inspiration.
Acts of Service and Media Coverage
The Salesian family, led by Fr Kpen-Ana Peter Kwaku SDB, distributed free water to the pilgrims, an initiative that earned widespread appreciation. Radio Maria Liberia, under the leadership of Fr Alexander K. Gbamoquelli, provided live coverage of the events, while Premium Online TV broadcast the proceedings online, ensuring that even those unable to attend could partake in the celebration.
Solemn Mass and Archbishop’s Message
The festivities culminated in a Solemn Festive Mass celebrated by Archbishop Gabriel Blamo Jubwe and concelebrated by about 40 priests from various congregations. A vibrant choir, composed of members from different parishes, enhanced the liturgical experience with their soulful singing. The altar, adorned with the statue of Mary Queen of Peace, radiated divine serenity, creating an atmosphere of deep reverence.
Archbishop Jubwe, celebrating his inaugural pilgrimage as archbishop, extended heartfelt gratitude to the organizing committee, priests, nuns, missionaries, and participants. He acknowledged their dedication and contributions, which ensured the success of the event. The archbishop encouraged the faithful to strengthen their relationship with God and continue living out their faith with conviction and devotion.
A Celebration of Faith and Unity
This annual pilgrimage remains a cornerstone of the Catholic Church in Liberia, fostering unity and strengthening the spiritual lives of participants. The joy and fulfillment expressed by attendees underscored the transformative impact of the day’s events. As the faithful departed the shrine, they carried with them renewed faith and a sense of peace, inspired by the celebration of Mary, the Queen of Peace.
