Seeking St Anne's benevolence

Talawila readies for the annual feast:

by Christie Fernando

The hallowed Shrine of St Anne, Talawila, nestles on the sprawling golden sands, sandwiched between the waters of a blue lagoon and the simmering sea. It is sited on the tip of the Kalpitiya peninsula.

Vast crowds of pilgrims from all walks of life flock to this place of pilgrimage to intercede St. Anne's help and divine protection. She is venerated as the Mother of Mary, the Mother of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.

Milling pilgrims will throng to this venue to celebrate the annual feast this year, which falls on August 2nd.

Even non-Catholics are accustomed to visit this venerated Shrine as a place of rest and recreation. All facilities including medical care, food and residential facilities are available for visitors. Even on weekends and other days, Catholics visit this Shrine to intercede the help of St Anne.

It's invigorating and relaxing to enjoy the breezy atmosphere at the seaside church. I remember a Dutch priest commenting after spending a well-earned holiday at Bandarawela that he could now breathe and survive for yet another year in peace and tranquillity.

Strict measures are enforced by the Catholic clergy at Talawila who are especially appointed to oversee and cater to the needs of pilgrims who crowd in the closing days of the feast to avert drinking and merry-making habits. Musical instruments are strictly taboo in the hallowed precincts.

In the days gone by, Talawila lacked an approach road. With the intervention of Sir John Kotalawala, a new road was constructed linking the Palakuda junction. Today, St. Anne's Shrine has two approach roads.

The colourful globe lamps adorn the sacred area with an attractive porch and belfry that give a gorgeous look.

The annual feast of St. Anne's Shrine will be held on August 2nd 2015 preceded by Vespers in the evening on August 1st.

Rev. Fr. Nelson Samantha, the Administrator and Parish priest said the Festive holy Mass will be concelebrated by Rt. Rev. Dr. Valence Mendis, Bishop of Chilaw and the new Bishop of Trincomalee-Batticaloa Rt.Rev. Dr.Christian Noel Immanuel.