THE Minor Basilica of St Anne in Bukit Mertajam is abuzz with anticipation as it gears up to welcome hundreds of thousands of pilgrims for its annual St Anne’s Feast this month.
A cherished tradition that draws visitors from across Malaysia and around the globe, the ten-day celebration will begin with a novena on July 18, culminating in the grand feast day on July 27.
Masses will be in four languages namely English, Bahasa Malaysia, Mandarin, and Tamil, ensuring inclusivity for the diverse congregation.
Rev Deacon Lazarus Anthony said this year’s theme, ‘Celebrating, Listening, and Walking as Pilgrims of Hope’, underscores the church’s mission to accompany individuals through their life journeys.
“We want to listen to everyone including their struggles, their pains, their joys. We want to walk with them through life’s challenges and be a symbol of hope, reminding them that difficulties are temporary, and something better is always ahead,” he told Buletin Mutiara during an interview at the church today.
According to him, one of the key highlights of this year’s celebration is that July 26, the traditional feast day of St Anne, falls on a Saturday, which is expected to significantly boost attendance for the open-air mass and the candlelight procession through Bukit Mertajam town.
“It’s rare that the feast day lands on a weekend, so we anticipate a larger turnout for the open-air mass and the procession.
“Everyone is welcome regardless of race or religion. Over the years, the Minor Basilica has embraced pilgrims and visitors of all faiths,” Rev Deacon Lazarus added.
The open-air mass on July 26 will take place within the church compound and is expected to be presided over by Catholic Bishop of Penang Cardinal Datuk Seri Sebastian Francis, alongside other clergy and religious leaders.
The procession that follows will mark a spiritual and visual highlight, as devotees walk in faith and reverence through the streets of Bukit Mertajam.
Rev Deacon Lazarus said the Minor Basilica is anticipating over 100,000 pilgrims and visitors this year, including those who come not only to pray but to witness the cultural and spiritual richness of the event.
He also shared that food donation activities have been scheduled for three days only, from July 25 to 27, during designated times.
He clarified that the food distribution is church-organised and solely for the purpose of community sharing.
“This is part of our tradition of giving, and we hope it brings a little joy to those who come,” he said.
Rev Deacon Lazarus also expressed deep appreciation to the Human Resources Minister and Bukit Mertajam MP Steven Sim Chee Keong, who has allocated RM70,000 in support of this year’s event.
“We are truly thankful for the government’s support, especially from our local MP. This gesture reflects the unity and respect that exists across different communities,” he said.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud