Lenten Pilgrimage to St. Joseph Vaz Shrine, Mudipu: A Journey of Faith and Reflection Back

Lenten Pilgrimage to St. Joseph Vaz Shrine, Mudipu: A Journey of Faith and Reflection

On 9th March 2025, in the season of Lent, the parishioners of Most Holy Redeemer Church, Derebail, embarked on a pilgrimage to St. Joseph Vas Shrine Mudipu. A total of 350 members participated in the spiritual journey, travelling in seven buses.

The pilgrimage began at 1:45 PM from the Derebail Church grounds,  after a short prayer in the buses. The parishioners  reached Mudipu at 2:40 PM and commenced walking towards the Mudipu Shrine, praying and singing hymns along the way. Upon arrival, they first visited the statue of St. Joseph Vaz and then  proceeded to the shrine.

At the shrine, Fr. Kevin D'Souza led the parishioners in a deeply moving Way of the Cross, followed by a session of Adoration conducted by Fr. Joseph Martis. During this time, Fr. Martis beautifully explained the journey of Fr. Joseph Vaz and his path to sainthood.

After the spiritual sessions, refreshments were served and then the parishioners visited the Cave. The participants were also given time to explore the stalls before departing for Ryshivana at 5:45 PM. 

The parishioners reached Ryshivana at 6:15 p.m. Ryshivana is a Christian Institute of Spirituality and Inner Silence. All were warmly welcomed by Fr. Alvito Fernandes. He provided insights into the retreats held at Ryshivana and addressed the gathering in Goan Konkani. The serene and picturesque surroundings of Ryshivana added to the spiritual experience.

After spending some peaceful time there, the parishioners headed back to Derebai at 7:15 PM. The pilgrimage concluded as they reached Derebail Church by 8:00 PM.

The parishioners expressed their gratitude to Fr. Joseph Martis and Fr. Kevin D’Souza for organizing this spiritually enriching pilgrimage to Mudipu, which helped them to reflect and grow in faith during this Lenten season.

Report by: Primal Furtado
Pictures: Ephraim