Archbishop Paul Cremona will inaugurate a series of penitential Lent pilgrimages today with the traditional Ħadd in-Nies (People’s Sunday) in Żabbar at 5.30pm.

In the past, this aspect of thanksgiving and penance moved people to pay visits and join in pilgrimages to the venerated Sanctuary of Our Lady of Graces in Żabbar. The tradition dates back to centuries before the Order of St John came to Malta in AD1530.

With the introduction of Carnival during the early days of the Order in Malta, visitors to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Graces increased on Ash Wednesday as an act of penance for any follies committed during the Carnival festivities.

People from all walks of life visited the Sanctuary to fulfil their vows, pray and ask for God’s blessings. From Ash Wednesday, these visits slowly shifted to the first Sunday of Lent.

In the 17th century, this event turned into a festivity similar to L-Imnarja and San Girgor, until around 80 years ago, when the spirit of penance was revived via the use of floats and groups depicting the history and devotion to our Lady of Graces.

In recent years, the annual pilgrimage has reverted to the original pilgrimage as a sign of penance and thanksgiving to the Lord, through the intercession of Our Lady of Graces.

This year’s programme starts at 5pm with Mgr Cremona meeting the community at the Xgħajra church centre, followed by the annual pilgrimage led by Archbishop Cremona and accompanied by parish priests, clergy, religious societies, corporate bodies of the parish and various pilgrims.

The penitential pilgrimage will leave San Ġakbu church in Xgħajra and proceed towards the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Graces, where the Archbishop will lead a concelebrated Mass at 6.30pm with the participation of the Notre Dame choir. Everybody is encouraged to participate to feel the true spirit of Lent.