On April 29th, 2017 the opening of the pilgrimage season took place to commemorate 150 years of canonization of the Martyrs of Gorkum with the Eucharistic celebration The history of the same is associated with the revolt against Spain for independence as organized religion was viewed as the sole or most valuable means of furthering spiritual growth.
Bladowski pastor who is the custodian of the sanctuary of the Martyrs of Gorkum said that the Saints gave their lives for Christ. We remember Jesus who gave his life for his church. As disciples of Jesus we can show who Jesus is and can testify to his love to the end .The ultimate example of this is to give your life. We are connected to the people who gave their life for their belief and also to the people who today have to endure torture , the martyrs of yesterday and today are the part of the church , we must pray for their intercession for strength so that they can withstand the difficulties they encounter.
Pastor Jack Glass (chairman of the working group Activities Brielle) said, “The people who gave their life for faith (Martyrs) are saints and the Eucharist is the source and summit of our faith. People who surrender their lives for their faith is not something that only exists in the past, but even now. The prayer of many is very powerful therefore we invite everyone to come together and pray, with the intercession of the Martyrs of Gorkum, for the people of this generation, are persecuted in Christ.”
Photocredits: Diocese of Rotterdam/Peter van Mulken
