On 20th September 2025, the parish of St. Sebastian Church, Bendur organized a blessed
Holy Tour to St. Anthony’s Basilica, Dornahalli. A group of 45 pilgrims, along with our
Parish Vicar Rev. Fr. Walter D’Souza, joyfully took part in this spiritual journey.
The pilgrimage began early in the morning at 6:00 AM from the church campus. On the way,
the pilgrims visited St. Francis Xavier Church, Sampaje, where they participated in a short
prayer and relished a hearty breakfast arranged for them. The journey continued with hymns
and rosary recitations that enriched the spiritual atmosphere throughout the bus ride.
The group reached Dornahalli Basilica by 12:30 PM, where they were warmly welcomed by
Rev. Fr. David Sagayaraj, Rector of the Basilica. After lunch and a brief rest, the pilgrims
gathered at 3:00 PM to visit the shrine and offer the Rosary with devotion. At 4:00 PM, the
Vicar, Rev. Fr. Walter D’Souza, celebrated a solemn Holy Mass followed by Adoration of
the Blessed Sacrament, which was a spiritually uplifting moment for all participants.
Afterwards, the pilgrims explored the Basilica campus, including the Miraculous Statue of
St. Anthony, the Moolagudi (original shrine), and other holy places. Many also offered
intentions, Masses, and visited the stalls to collect devotional articles. The tour was a blend of
prayer, devotion, and fellowship.
In the evening, at 7:00 PM, the pilgrims once again gathered in front of the Miraculous Statue
of St. Anthony for the Rosary, offering heartfelt prayers with deep faith. Soon after, at 7:30
PM, the group began their return journey. A delicious dinner was arranged at Kushalnagar,
and the group safely reached Bendur Church campus by 2:00 AM the next day.
The pilgrimage proved to be a memorable and faith-nourishing experience, strengthening
the spiritual bond among the parishioners and deepening their devotion to St. Anthony of
Dornahalli.