Thiruvananthapuram: Preparations for the annual Christ the King feast at Madre de Deus Church in Vettucaud began with the traditional tent-pole installation ceremony on Sunday.The ceremony was held after the morning Holy Mass, with parish priest Rev Shaju William performing the ritual in the presence of parishioners and devotees.The feast will officially begin with the ceremonial flag hoisting on Nov 13. The parish is making extensive arrangements for the smooth conduct of the celebrations, which attract large numbers of pilgrims from across Keralam and other parts of the country.Also known as the Vettucaud Palli Perunnal, the feast is one of the prominent annual religious celebrations in Thiruvananthapuram. The historic church, which has a tradition spanning around 500 years, welcomes devotees irrespective of religious background.The celebrations traditionally feature special prayers, Holy Mass, community worship and a ceremonial procession carrying the statue of Christ the King. The festival is recognised for its significance in promoting communal harmony and religious unity.The church is an important pilgrimage centre under the Latin Catholic Archdiocese of Thiruvananthapuram. The annual feast also brings together locals and visitors in a celebration of faith and devotion.Further arrangements for this year’s celebrations are expected to be announced by the parish as the festival approaches.
