SHILLONG NOVEMBER 9: Large and colorful crowds enveloped the city today (November 9). Buses and cars began their journey before dawn, over hills and valleys towards one destination, The Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians in Laitumkhrah, Shillong.
The annual Eucharistic procession marks one of the biggest gatherings in Shillong with Parish churches from across Meghalaya participating in this once a year event. Preparations for the auspicious occasion began earlier this week with decorated canopies set up at different stops.
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By Late morning a grand outdoor mass was held from across the cathedral, at a permanent altar. The choir took their place near the altar and filled the air with hymns.
Boys and girls dressed in traditional attires gracefully danced greeting the clergy who was led by a crucifer with the processional cross, followed by altar servers, priests and a bishop carrying his crozier.
The ceremony was led by the bishop with hundreds of devotees facing the altar from the hillside cathedral steps. Numerous priests took part in the celebration, joined by sisters and seminarians from various religious orders who filled the cathedral grounds.
Road side stalls for food and refreshments were installed throughout the area. After lunch beautifully dressed men and women took to the streets of Shillong to begin the procession. The procession was led by the same boy who carried the processional cross and priests along with a marching band.
Parish churches carried their flags as devotees followed along the route, from the cathedral turning towards Fire Brigade, then towards Laitumkhrah and finally back to the cathedral. Hymns echoed through the streets led by the band.
At several corners, vendors sold photographs of Christ and rosaries, adding to the devotional atmosphere.
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While the procession advanced, priests continued preaching at the altar. The procession finally came to a halt after the car carrying the Eucharist and the bishop reached the altar.
The bishop then delivered a short sermon before taking the Eucharist back into the cathedral. More sermons followed marking the conclusion of the ceremony.
The ceremony also included the observance of the Holy Communion, an integral part of the Eucharistic celebration.
