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Marian Procession tradition continues at new venue

Events

In what will be the first major gathering of the faithful since COVID hit, more than 3000 Catholics from parishes and multicultural groups throughout the Archdiocese will converge on the Adelaide Showgrounds on May 16 for the annual Marian Procession and Peace Rally.

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It is the first time the event has been held at the Wayville location, with the procession to take place on the main arena. However, if weather conditions are inclement there is provision for proceedings to be moved indoors in the Jubilee Pavilion.

With COVID restrictions now eased, organisers are hoping large numbers of the faithful will take the opportunity to gather together and celebrate Mary, Our Lady Health of the Roman People.

“It’s going to be a wonderful chance for people throughout the Archdiocese to celebrate their faith together,” said event coordinator, Alexa Vozzo.

“The new venue also provides us with peace of mind that even if the weather is unfavourable we can move the event indoors, and still accommodate the large crowd.”

Ms Vozzo said while there were no restrictions in place regarding the number of people who can attend, bookings are still required. People will also need to check in using the QR code on the day.

Schools participating in this year’s procession include Mercedes, Christian Brothers and Our Lady of the Sacred Heart colleges. Music on the day will be provided by the Hectorville parish.

Holding the record as the State’s longest continuously run religious festival, unprecedented events have resulted in the procession and peace rally being presented in a different way over the past two years.

Last year due to COVID restrictions the faithful participated remotely through a ‘Pray with Mother Mary’ initiative and a Mass that was live streamed from St Francis Xavier’s Cathedral. In 2019 inclement weather saw the event moved from the South Parklands to a smaller celebration in the Cathedral.

Established in 1949, the first procession was held at St Francis Xavier Seminary, Rostrevor, under the guidance of Archbishop Matthew Beovich. At the time he said the event served to provide an opportunity for Catholics to thank Mary for her protection of Australia during the war and to ask for her intercession in the future.

A hallmark of the procession throughout the years has been the diversity of those who attend, becoming an important date on the calendar for Catholic migrants and refugees.

Groups to assemble at Adelaide Showgrounds main arena from 1:30pm, with the procession starting at 2pm. Bookings required at www.trybooking.com/BPJAN. For more information contact Archdiocesan Events on 8210 8220 or events@adelaide.catholic.org.au

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