Archdiocese of Maribor: Caritas of the parish on a traditional pilgrimage [PHOTO]

On the day of the Feast of the Assumption of Mary, thousands of pilgrims gathered at Brezje, a small village in Slovenia known for its annual pilgrimage to the local church dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Among them were several hundred people who walked barefoot from nearby villages, while others arrived by tractor, reflecting the deep religious devotion and tradition associated with the event. According to reports, around 3,500 people gathered near the central shrine, making it one of the largest gatherings of the year in the region. The pilgrimage took place on a sunny Saturday, drawing visitors from across the country and even some international tourists. The atmosphere was festive yet solemn, with participants carrying candles and singing hymns as they approached the church. A large crowd had already assembled before dawn, waiting patiently for the morning Mass. The event marked the culmination of weeks of preparation, including special prayers and offerings made by locals in anticipation of the feast. Father Robert Bahčič, a Franciscan priest and rector of the church, described the emotional impact of the gathering. He recounted a story shared by one of the attendees, a man who came to the shrine seeking strength and guidance. The man, who will soon turn 90, explained how he has been caring for his wife, who has been bedridden for ten years. He asked the Virgin Mary for more time together, expressing both sorrow and hope. Father Bahčič noted that such personal stories are common among pilgrims, who often come to the shrine with their deepest concerns and hopes. The shrine itself, located in a quiet corner of the village, is believed to have been founded over two centuries ago. It houses a painting of the Virgin Mary, attributed to the 18th-century painter Leopold Layer. This image, which has become a symbol of faith and protection for many, draws visitors throughout the year, especially during major religious festivals. The church’s architecture reflects traditional Slovenian design, with wooden elements and intricate carvings that tell biblical stories. Local authorities reported that the event ran smoothly, with police and volunteers ensuring safety and order. Despite the large number of participants, there were no major incidents. Food stalls and souvenir vendors lined the streets, offering traditional dishes and religious items. Some families brought children, who were dressed in white shirts and trousers, a customary attire for young pilgrims. The event also included cultural performances, with musicians playing folk songs and dancers performing traditional dances. Pilgrims expressed gratitude for the opportunity to participate in the ceremony, emphasizing the spiritual significance of the day. Many described the experience as deeply moving, particularly the sense of community and shared belief. One visitor, a woman from Ljubljana, said she had come to pray for her mother, who had recently fallen ill. She felt reassured after spending time at the shrine and receiving blessings from the priests. As the sun set over Brezje, the crowd began to disperse, though many remained for the evening prayer. The event concluded with a final blessing and the distribution of holy water, a common practice during religious festivals. The following days will see continued activity at the shrine, with smaller gatherings and private prayers, as the community continues to honor the Virgin Mary.