Davangere: The Vatican raised the Shrine of Our Lady of Health to the status of a Minor Basilica at Harihar, Davangere district on September 18.
It is a beautiful shrine where the statue of Our Lady of Health is venerated for centuries. The newly-attained status of the shrine is good news for the entire state of Karnataka.
Only two shrines in the state have previously acquired the status of Minor Basilica. Those two shrines are St Mary’s Minor Basilica in the Bengaluru Archdiocese and St Lawrence Minor Basilica in the Udupi Diocese.
Now, the Shrine of Our Lady of Health in Harihar has been added to that illustrious list. The celebrations of this milestone will be held on January 15, 2020. The event is being planned by Shivamogga Bishop Dr Francis Serrao and Harihar Parish priest Dr Anthony Peter, along with other priests of the Diocese. Several ecclesiastical and political dignitaries are also expected to attend the event. Mary the Mother of Jesus, who is honoured as Harihar Matha will intercede for us all.
