By Wilfred Lawrence DSouza
MONROVIA, NOVEMBER 4, 2025 (CISA) – Hundreds of Catholic faithful filled the streets of Monrovia in solemn devotion on October 26, for the Archdiocesan annual Rosary procession, marking the close of the Month of the Holy Rosary. Pilgrims gathered at the grotto of Mary Help of Christians at Our Lady of Lebanon Catholic Church before embarking on the seven-kilometer prayer march to Sacred Heart Cathedral on Broad Street.
The procession, a longstanding tradition inspired by the late Archbishop Michael Kpakala Francis, highlights the Archdiocese’s commitment to fostering Marian devotion each October. The Catholic Church celebrates the Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary on October 7, commemorating Mary’s protection and honouring the power of the Rosary in the life of the Church.
This year’s procession drew a vibrant assembly of altar servers, consecrated and religious men and women, priests, missionaries, youth ministries, Legion of Mary groups, the Sacred Heart Confraternity, Salesian Cooperators, and children from the Mama Margaret Ministry. Many faithful prayed the Rosary and sang Marian hymns as the procession made its way through Monrovia, accompanying a statue of the Blessed Virgin mounted on a Radio Maria Liberia vehicle.
The route passed notable landmarks, including the University of Liberia campus, Liberia National Police Headquarters, Capitol Bypass, Orange Liberia Technology Office, YMCA Building, and Broad Street. Throughout the march, live reflections, prayers, and spiritual commentaries were broadcast by Radio Maria Liberia and streamed online, enabling thousands more to join virtually.
Despite the scorching heat, participants marched in prayer and unity. In an expression of charity and fraternity, members of the Knights and Ladies of Marshall and their Junior Order distributed water to pilgrims. Led by Bro. Joe O. Howe (Grand Knight, Council 145), State Grand Knight Worthy Brother S. Clarence Borbordee, Noble Lady Sis. Veronica Harris, and other leaders, the gesture underscored the spirit of service and solidarity that marked the day.
Upon reaching Sacred Heart Cathedral, worshippers gathered at the grotto for the Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Prayer of the Faithful, led by the Mama Margaret Children’s Ministry. The children crowned the statue of Mary, drawing emotional reactions from the congregation. The celebration concluded with the Consecration to the Immaculate Heart of Mary and Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament inside the Cathedral.
Fr. Johnny C. Kombo, Secretary to the Archbishop of Monrovia, expressed gratitude to organizers, volunteers, and all participants, and extended appreciation to the Knights and Ladies of Marshall for their support.
Fr. Martin Chea Dunham, Administrator of Sacred Heart Cathedral, affirmed the spiritual significance of the event, saying, “This annual event reminds us that Mary has always accompanied us with her loving presence. We continue to pass through Mary as our shortest route to Jesus, asking her intercession for our Church, our country, and all our communities so that peace and goodwill may prevail.”
Reflecting on the Year of Hope, Fr. Thomas Tran, SDB, Assistant Parish Priest of Our Lady of Lebanon, described Mary as “a mother of Hope and Mercy and a powerful intercessor,” adding, “Everything the Church teaches about Mary points us to Jesus Christ. As our Heavenly Mother, she continues to guide us on the path to holiness.”
The celebration ended with refreshments hosted by Catholic groups from Sacred Heart Cathedral, promoting fellowship and unity among participants. The Archdiocesan Rosary procession once again stood as a profound testament to Liberia’s enduring Catholic faith, inspiring the faithful to persevere in prayer and shine as witnesses of Christ’s light in society.
