A Message from Father Nathan
My dearest people closest to my heart!
God bless you and your generous heart.
Nativity of our Blessed Mother – September 8th
Traditional Indian Celebration will be held on September 6th (Saturday) at 6:00 p.m. Mass will be celebrated at St. Gabriel following the traditional way of honoring our Blessed Mother, taking her on a decorated chariot
September 8th, we are going to celebrate the Nativity of our Blessed Mother. Nestled along the serene Coromandel Coast of Tamil Nadu, in the small town of Velankanni, lies one of the most revered and iconic Christian pilgrimage destinations in India—the Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health, more popularly known as Velankanni Church.
the Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health, more popularly known as Velankanni Church
This magnificent Roman Catholic Latin Rite shrine attracts millions of pilgrims and visitors each year, transcending boundaries of caste, creed, and religion. Fondly referred to as the “Lourdes of the East,” Velankanni Church stands as a symbol of faith, healing, and divine grace, drawing devotees not only from across India but also from various parts of the world.
miraculous occurrences
The origins of the shrine are steeped in pious legends and miraculous occurrences that date back to the 16th century. According to popular belief, three key apparitions of the Blessed Virgin Mary with the Child Jesus took place in and around Velankanni.
The first involved a young shepherd boy who offered milk to a radiant lady holding a child, the second featured a handicapped boy who was miraculously healed, and the third occurred when Portuguese sailors, caught in a storm in the Bay of Bengal, prayed for salvation and were saved after invoking Our Lady’s intercession. In gratitude, they are said to have built the first modest chapel at Valankanni.
interfaith appeal
One of the most striking aspects of Velankanni Church is its interfaith appeal. Hindus, Muslins, and Christians alike flock to the shrine, making it a vibrant symbol of religious harmony and unity. The inclusive spirit of Velankanni has turned it into a national shrine, one that transcends religious labels and emphasizes universal compassion and faith.
Every year, whenever I go home for my holidays, I try to visit that shrine. It’s my delight. This year, the Indian community on September 6th (Saturday) at 6:00 p.m. is going to celebrate the Mass at St. Gabriel following the tradiional way of honoring our Blessed Mother, taking her on a decorated chariot and praying the rosary. It’s so popular all over India and in particular in my state. People go walking on bare feet like a few hundred miles. This year if you want, please do come and experience this different kind of popular devotion to our Blessed Mother.
With lots of love and blessings.
Ever wanting to be faithful to your service,
— Fr. Sahayanathan Nathan
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Past Messages from Father Nathan
From The Desk Of Father Nathan | November 15, 2020
Peace and happiness are like a light within each of our hearts. I believe and trust that It’s ONE of the gifts from God. It’s purely a gift from the Holy Spirit. It is light – that always glows and intensifies.
From The Desk Of Father Nathan | November 1, 2020
On November 2nd we are going to celebrate All Souls Day. This is a holy day set aside for honoring the dead. The day is primarily celebrated in the Catholic Church, but it is also celebrated in the Eastern Orthodox Church as well as a few other denominations of Christianity.
From The Desk Of Father Nathan | October 25, 2020
Every week as we profess our faith, we express… “I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Holy Catholic
Church and THE COMMUNION OF SAINTS.” The author of this letter to the Hebrews wrote. “Therefore since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us rid ourselves of every burden and sin that clings to us and persevere in running the race that lies before us while keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus, the leader and the perfecter of faith.” (12.1-2)
From The Desk Of Father Nathan | October 18, 2020
The Elections are quickly approaching. Our people have such a love for our nation – which is good. Let us love our nation. I have no other thought than
to say just this: “How blessed we are all, to live such a blessed country. God Bless America!
From The Desk Of Father Nathan | October 11, 2020
The Elections are quickly approaching. Our people have such a love for our nation – which is good. Let us love our nation. I have no other thought than
to say just this: “How blessed we are all, to live such a blessed country. God Bless America!
From The Desk Of Father Nathan | October 4, 2020
October is the Month of the Rosary and the Bible. There are 15 promises that are assured to people who recite the rosary.