ADMA members praying at the Miraculous Cross at Nandgad
The ADMA unit of Don Bosco Provincial House, Odxel, Goa organised a Province Level Pilgrimage to the Miraculous Cross at Nandgad, Belgaum, Karnataka, accompanied by the local Delegate, Father Tony Alemao. Margerat Bosco Bal Sadan, Parra and Don Bosco Benaulim Unit members and a couple of Cooperators also took part in the Pilgrimage, on Sunday, September 22, 2024.
Even though the journey by road was erratic, yet the spirit of the pilgrims was high, flowing with prayerful moments - recitation of the Rosary, hymns and action songs.
Parish Priest, Immaculate Conception Church, Nandgad, Father Shantappa Borker welcomed the pilgrims. After a quick refreshing with a hot cup of tea and biscuits, we all set out to walk to the Cross. The rugged road made it difficult for the elderly to ascend the hill. We had smaller vehicles to drop off people to the foot of the steps leading to the Cross.
ADMA members Immaculate Conception Church Nandgad
On reaching the hill top, we found ourselves in a peaceful and calm surrounding. We recited the Divine Mercy and silently prayed at the foot of the Cross. It was a beautiful moment to cherish.
There is a historical relevance for the Cross on the hill at Nandgad. In 1920, when people were suffering from a plague, a priest from the village came to this hill and celebrated Mass. There is a belief that for generations, the prayer said by the priest had yielded positive results. Since then, people from neighbouring states too travel to the Miraculous Cross with their hopes and petitions.
Delegate Fr Anthony Alemao celebrates mass for ADMA members
On descending, Father Alemao celebrated the Eucharist. Father Shantappa then treated the pilgrims to a sumptuous lunch and later to a refreshing cup of tea with biscuits. Some of the ADMA members visited the FMA Convent which was situated very close to the Parish. Superior, Sister Lata Arokyaswamy, along with her community members gave a warm welcome.
