![Although best known for its alleged "healing waters," the primary purpose of the national Marian shrine in Subukia is to be a place of prayer for Kenyan Catholics--like the 50,000 who come to the shrine for the national prayer day in early October. Although best known for its alleged "healing waters," the primary purpose of the national Marian shrine in Subukia is to be a place of prayer for Kenyan Catholics--like the 50,000 who come to the shrine for the national prayer day in early October.](https://publisher-ncreg.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pb-ncregister/swp/hv9hms/media/2024060711060_4c674442d7ebf00f12b531ca47f0006dd21771b6c7918ea99a73c101615a3d91.jpg)
The ‘Lourdes of Africa’? Faithful Flock to ‘Healing Waters’ of Kenya’s Marian Shrine
Pilgrims venture up the steep hillside along the Way of the Cross to a small, simple chapel that encompasses the spring.
Pilgrims venture up the steep hillside along the Way of the Cross to a small, simple chapel that encompasses the spring.
Since 1900, more than 120 alleged Marian apparitions have received an official rejection from Church authorities; and new Vatican norms could lead to more explicit rejections.
The priest also explained the reason why it is not proper at this time to speak of a miracle.
May the Mother of God always keep us, and all our loved ones, close to her Immaculate Heart — and close to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
Rocher de Massabielle marks the location where the Virgin Mary appeared to St. Bernadette in France. Chocolatier made annual pilgrimages to Lourdes and also organized a visit for his employees. He also had a statue of the Virgin Mary in each of his company’s 14 production facilities around the world.
Since it was built at the beginning of the 20th century, the shrine has been an important pilgrimage site.
The Church marks the World Day of the Sick each year on Feb. 11.
ROSARY & ART: Today’s depiction of Our Lady and the Rosary comes from the Spanish artist Francisco de Zurbarán
Increasing numbers of pilgrims from around of the world seek solace and the intercession of the Virgin Mary at the foot of this replica of the famous sanctuary in the south of France.
BOOK PICK: Insights offer comfort, hope and guidance.
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