46 Catholic Diocese of Sandhurst Year in Review 2024 50 years of Devotion Marian Festival On 12 and 13 October, Sacred Heart Cathedral dazzled in Marian blue as part of the 50th anniversary of the Marian Festival, commemorating the Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Fatima apparitions. There was standing room only at Sacred Heart Cathedral Bendigo on Sunday 13 October as Catholics from across the Province gathered for Mass on the day of the 50th annual Marian Festival, and the 107th anniversary of the Fatima Apparitions. The Bendigo Marian Festival, organised by the Bendigo Apostolate of Fatima, is held every October. It has become a much-loved event to honour Mary as an intercessor and role model, while preserving traditions and fostering community spirit. For many who were raised in devotional Catholic cultures, where public displays of prayer are more common, the Marian Festival provides an opportunity to connect with their faith in a familiar way. Mary represents a source of inspiration and strength. In a world entrenched
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