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THE Kreupasanam Marian Shrine was teeming with devotees, a sea of faces marked by grief, desperation and faith. In the crowded hall, a line of people eagerly awaited their turn to give their testimonials, sharing stories of 'miracles' that had changed their lives. Their voices, sometimes cracking with emotion, filled the air with tales of miraculous healings, unexpected financial blessings and deliverance from addiction. As they spoke, the crowd listened intently, tears streaming down many faces, moved by the power of the 'divine interventions'. On the other side, a solemn procession formed a queue before a priest, who was carrying a vessel of holy water. One by one, he blessed each devotee, pouring the 'sacred water' on to their heads, murmuring prayers for healing and relief. The mood was hysteric and the atmosphere was thick with the scent of incense and the sound of sobs, as people brought their problems-grief, diseases, debt, and addictions-before the altar, seeking solace and redemption.
Forty-six-year-old Ramya Mohan, while standing on the dais in the shrine, weeps as she testifies about the miracles the Kreupasanam Marian Shrine has bestowed in her life. A few years ago, she lost her three-year-old son in an accident and she too was severely injured. Being a devotee of Kreupasanam Shrine, she often asked Mother Mary why she had been given such a curse in her life. She was told that her child was sent to a better place where he is more secure and safe. Later, her health gradually improved. She received the answer from the 'divine force' that every bad thing in life is a test by the Almighty. Ramya said she was a Hindu by birth and finds peace of mind every time she comes to the church for serving the 'covenant prayer'.
This story is from the August 01, 2024 edition of Outlook.
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This story is from the August 01, 2024 edition of Outlook.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
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