Neyyatinkara Diocese appreciated and extended their gratitude towards the Forest Minister of Kerala and his department for granting the permission to restart conducting worship at Bonacaud Kurishumala, Kerala. The Diocese welcomed the efforts of the Forest Department and the Minister, who worked fruitfully to grant the permission to conduct prayers at the venue which was stopped for more than 6 months.
As reported by catholicvox.com, His Excellency Bishop Dr. Vincent Samuel of Neyyatinkara Diocese remarked that “It was really a disappointment for the diocese to see the pause in the worship which had begun 60 years ago at the Kurishumala. The freedom of religion as per the constitution should be provided and implemented at the Kurishumala.” His Grace Bishop Vincent also requested the Forest department authorities of Kerala to look at the issue with immense seriousness and to approach the faithful with good cooperation.
The history of Kurisumala can be traced back to 1950s. On 1st March 1957, Rev.Fr. Stellaz Far Gomez climbed the summit with a small group of parishioners and established a wooden Cross and that marked the beginning of the pilgrimage. The Cross on the summit has a history of its own. Due to bad weather, the wooden Cross was partially damaged. Therefore, a 24 feet (7m) high concrete Cross was established in its place.
Source: www.catholicvox.com
