The foundation stone of the new Grotto at the National Marian Shrine in Mariamabad was laid on May 13, 2024, by His Grace Archbishop Sebastian Francis Shaw, accompanied by Fr. Asif Sardar, Fr. Tariq George, and other dignitaries. This new Grotto, dedicated to Our Lady of Mercy, is designed to accommodate large numbers of pilgrims, providing ample space for prayer, reflection, and contemplation
August 24, 2024: A newly constructed Grotto of Mother Mary was inaugurated, a larger structure designed to accommodate the growing number of pilgrims.
As part of the celebrations, the Chief Minister of Punjab, Maryam Nawaz Sharif, visited Mariamabad on March 31, 2024, during Easter. Furthermore, this historic visit marks the first time a Chief Minister has visited Mariamabad in its 131-year history.
Additionally, for the first time in 131 years, a Bishop/Archbishop celebrated the Holy Mass with the faithful at the National Shrine on Easter this year.Fr. Tariq George emphasized the significance of this jubilee year, urging the faithful to come together as one family and express their devotion and love to Holy Mary. He prayed that Holy Mary, the Queen of Mercy and Love, may always protect and bless the families and homes of the faithful.
The history of Mariamabad is a testament to the endurance of the Christian community in Pakistan and the strategic efforts by missionaries to establish an autonomous and spiritually vibrant center for the faith in the region. The shrine is known for its interfaith appeal, attracting not only Christians but also Muslims, Hindus, and Sikhs who come to seek the Virgin Mary’s blessings.
