Media Release

Hyderabad, Sep 8: On the occasion of the Nativity of Blessed Mother Mary, Cardinal Anthony Poola, CBCI President and archbishop of Hyderabad, said that Mary’s birth is God’s gift to humanity.

Presiding over the Pontifical Mass at the Historic Shrine of Our Lady of Good Health, Khairatabad, Archdiocese of Hyderabad, India, Cardinal Poola, in a melodious singing of his homily, lifted up all the petitions of Mary’s devotees, invoking God’s abundant blessings.

Highlighting Mary’s song of praise, he recalled:

“My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant.”

Cardinal Poola said Mary is an embodiment of humility and prayer. He reflected that in Mary’s birth, God prepared the dawn before the rising of the Son, Jesus Christ.

Earlier, officiating at the customary and traditional birthday Mass at the altar of Our Lady of Good Health, rector of the shrine, Fr Michael Selvaraj, made a special and heartfelt welcome to all the devotees and pilgrims from Telangana, Andhra Pradesh and neighbouring states.

He said, “Your presence makes this celebration truly joyful and faith filled. May Our Lady of Good Health lovingly accompany you, strengthen your faith, bless your families, and bring healing, peace, and hope into your lives.”

Millions of devotees across all walks of life, irrespective of caste and religion, thronged Asia’s biggest octagonal Shrine since midnight. Devotees offered flowers, candles, coconuts and silver articles to express their gratitude, present their petitions and honour Mother Mary.

A grand car procession with the Miraculous Statue of Mother Mary was taken out in the evening.

Elaborate arrangements were made by rector and parish priest Fr Michael Selvaraj, assistant priests Fr Anthony Muthu and Fr Aduri Fathima Dwijesh, parish council members, Legion of Mary, Society of St Vincent de Paul, volunteers, and civil and police authorities.