The Catholic Archdiocese of Cape Coast has officially launched its 30-day spiritual preparation towards the 2026 Annual Marian Pilgrimage to the Immaculate Heart of Mary Grotto under the theme:
“With Mary, Mother of All Nations, Building Peace in a Troubled World.”
The launch ceremony took place on Monday, 11th May, at St. Joseph Minor Basilica and attracted hundreds of Catholic faithful and pilgrims who gathered for a spiritual journey of devotion and renewal in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
The celebration featured several spiritual activities, including:
Marian procession and walk with Mother Mary
Candlelight procession for faith renewal
Litany of the Immaculate Heart of Mary
Holy Mass
The Holy Mass was presided over by Most Rev. Charles Gabriel Palmer-Buckle, who in his homily emphasized the Catholic Church’s devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary.
According to the Archbishop, Catholics honor Mary but worship only Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world. He explained that the celebration of the Immaculate Heart of Mary is liturgical and follows the celebration of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
His Grace further highlighted that the Immaculate Heart of Mary remains the Patroness of the Archdiocese, which explains the significance of the annual pilgrimage and the presence of the Marian Grotto within the Archdiocese.
He described the Blessed Virgin Mary as a mother, model, mediatrix of grace, and patroness to the faithful, urging Catholics to continually honor her and remain committed to praying the Litany of the Immaculate Heart of Mary for grace and intercession.
The launch celebration concluded with Holy Mass in the presence of several notable priests, including:
Very Rev. Fr. John Bonaventure Annan
Very Rev. Fr. Anthony Enyinful
Very Rev. Fr. Nicholas Amoakwa
The faithful departed with renewed spiritual zeal as they begin the month-long preparation towards the Marian pilgrimage celebration.
Pax Boniface
Catholic News | Faith & Spirituality
