On the occasion of the Feast of St. Peter & Paul, the pilgrims embarked on a remarkable journey organized by the Pilgrimage Ministry of St. Francis of Assisi. The pilgrimage took them to the enchanting Portuguese Settlement, where they had a meaningful Mass at the Chapel of Immaculate Conception, followed by a solemn blessing of the Fishermen boats. As the evening unfolded, the pilgrims were treated to captivating cultural shows presented by the local community and esteemed guests from Portugal. This visit marked the first time the pilgrims experienced the vibrant ambiance of the Portuguese Settlement, immersing themselves in the flavours of authentic Kristang dishes that delighted their palates.
The following day, with the guidance of the Pilgrimage Ministry of St. Francis of Assisi, the pilgrims eagerly gathered for Mass at the awe-inspiring Our Lady of Guadalupe in Krubong. This beautiful church boasted a breath-taking Grotto dedicated to Our Lady of Guadalupe, enveloping the faithful in an atmosphere of profound reverence. There was also the ruins of the old church which was built about 500 years ago. Continuing their spiritual journey, they ventured to St. Mary's Church in Ayer Salak, where the old and new churches harmoniously coexisted on the same sacred grounds. The old church, adorned with elegance, served as a sanctuary for weddings and adorations held every Friday evening, while the new church hosted the vibrant weekend Masses. A serene grotto which was rebuilt in 2007 dedicated to Our Lady added to the spiritual ambiance. They also boast of their outdoor beautiful stone portrait of the Stations of the Cross.
The pilgrims had the pleasure of savouring the delectable flavours of Nyonya cuisine during their visit to Melaka town. Following a delightful lunch, meticulously organized by the Pilgrimage Ministry of St. Francis of Assisi, the journey led them to the Church of St. Theresa in Gajah Berang. Here, they recited the Divine Mercy in the peaceful sanctuary, later finding solace in the Adoration Room, a place of tranquil serenity.
In the evening, with the guidance of the Pilgrimage Ministry of St. Francis of Assisi, they embarked on an exploration of the renowned Stadhuys and Jonker Street, immersing themselves in shopping excursions and indulging in the exquisite Cendol Gula Melaka. Nightfall brought another opportunity to relish the flavours of Kristang cuisine and delicacies, while being captivated by mesmerizing cultural performances that lasted until midnight.
On the final day, under the care and guidance of the Pilgrimage Ministry of St. Francis of Assisi, the pilgrims gathered at St. Peter's Church, where the priest delivered a profound talk on Spirituality. As a culmination of their spiritual journey, the pilgrims were anointed with sacred oil, receiving a divine blessing. Subsequently, they proceeded to St. Francis Xavier, where they sought personal solace in prayer, embracing the tranquillity of the surroundings.
Before bidding farewell to this blessed pilgrimage, the pilgrims enjoyed a delightful lunch at a local Chinese restaurant, thoughtfully arranged by the Pilgrimage Ministry of St. Francis of Assisi. They also made a special stop at Baba Charlie Café to indulge in Nyonya delicacies, cherishing every last moment of their journey. Truly, this pilgrimage, organized by the dedicated Pilgrimage Ministry of St. Francis of Assisi, was an experience filled with abundant blessings and fruitful encounters that will forever be etched in their hearts.
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