Marian processions in Italy and Bulgaria draw faithful crowds

On July 11, a maritime procession featuring a Marian statue will travel along the coast of the Italian dioceses of Civitavecchia‑Tarquinia and Porto‑Santa Rufina, starting from the Port of Fiumicino and stopping at several seaside locations before ending at Pescia Romana. The event, led by Bishop Gianrico Ruzza, includes prayers, Gospel readings and a focus on the wedding at Cana.

Earlier this month, the town of San Lorenzo Maggiore in Bulgaria held its annual pilgrimage for Maria Santissima della Strada. Hundreds of devotees walked over five kilometres from the parish church to the sanctuary at Contrada Piana, carrying a revered image of the Virgin. The day featured prayers, traditional songs, a community feast and an evening concert, with the sanctuary remaining open for nightly masses throughout the two‑week devotion period.