Croatian Catholic Community Visits ‘Our Lady of Ta’ Pinu Shrine’ on a Pilgrimage
In the spirit of the Holy Jubilee Year and the Marian month of May, a time especially devoted to honouring the Virgin Mary, pilgrims from the Croatian Catholic Community of St. Nikola Tavelić in Clifton Hill embarked on a heartfelt pilgrimage to the Marian Shrine of Our Lady of Ta’ Pinu.
This pilgrimage, held on the first Saturday of the month—a day traditionally dedicated to special Masses for youth and families in the parish—was enriched with a particularly meaningful program. The event was presided over by parish priest Fr. Bosiljko Rajić, and beautifully organised by two devoted parishioners, Monika Buljan Jones and her sister Helena Buljan, whose efforts brought the community together in a profound spiritual encounter.
Approximately sixty parishioners joined the pilgrimage, including many young people as well as older members of the community who are always eager to participate in such spiritual journeys. On the way to the shrine, the pilgrims prayed the Rosary and sang hymns in honour of Our Lady, creating a serene and prayerful atmosphere that set the tone for the day.
Located in Bacchus Marsh, the Our Lady of Ta’ Pinu Shrine, also known as the All Nations Marian Centre, is a Catholic pilgrimage site dedicated to Our Lady of Ta’ Pinu, a devotion that originated on the island of Gozo in Malta. The shrine includes a chapel and facilities for religious gatherings, serving as a sanctuary for Catholics from all over the world.
Monsignor Benedict, a key figure at the shrine, emphasised the inclusive nature of the centre: “To show that this place in Bacchus Marsh belongs to everyone and is not restricted to some special ethnic group, we also call the place ‘All Nations Marian Centre.’”
Reflecting this spirit of unity, the shrine is home to twelve oratories, each established by different ethnic communities in Melbourne. These include the Maltese, Italian, Filipino, Hispanic, Sri Lankan, Indian, Portuguese, Slovenian, Vietnamese, Polish, Indonesian, and Australian communities—each one represented through a dedication to one of Our Lady’s many titles.
United in Prayer
During the pilgrimage, Holy Mass was celebrated in the small Chapel of Mercy, where all present felt a deep sense of devotion. Altar servers from the St. Nikola Tavelić parish assisted at the altar, and the Mass was made even more special by the involvement of children who read the Scriptures and sang joyfully, participating fully in the prayerful celebration.
After Mass, the pilgrims took a short tour of the shrine grounds, including a walk along the Stations of the Cross, before returning to Clifton Hill filled with joy and spiritual enrichment.
The day concluded with a warm gathering back at the church, where the community shared pizzas, cakes, and fellowship. The youngest pilgrims especially enjoyed a cheerful evening program held outdoors, bringing the day to a delightful close.
This pilgrimage not only deepened the faith of all who attended, but also beautifully reflected the unity and richness of a multicultural Church, gathered in devotion under the loving protection of Our Lady.
A short video from the pilgrimage can be viewed on the official Facebook page of the Croatian Catholic Centre Clifton Hill: https://www.facebook.com/Sv.NikolaTavelicCliftonHill/videos/1370794340864447
Honouring the Blessed Virgin in Croatian Catholic Centres Across Australia
As the month of May begins, Catholic communities around the world turn their hearts with renewed devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, the mother of Jesus.
For Croatian Catholics, both in the homeland and across the diaspora in Australia, this month holds deep spiritual significance as a time of prayer, reflection, and love for the one whom Jesus gave to us from the Cross, saying: “Behold your mother!” (John 19:27).
A Living Tradition of Love and Devotion
May, traditionally dedicated to the Virgin Mary, has been observed by the Church since the Middle Ages. Over the centuries, faithful communities developed special devotions during this month, known as the May Devotions or ‘Svibanjske pobožnosti’. These spiritual exercises focus on honouring Mary as the Queen of Heaven and our most loving advocate.
At the heart of these devotions is the prayer of the Holy Rosary—a beloved tradition especially dear to Croatian Catholics. Referred to as Mary’s favourite prayer, the Rosary invites us to meditate on the mysteries of Christ’s life through the eyes and heart of His mother. It is a powerful spiritual weapon and a gentle path to peace, trusted by generations of believers.
Croatian Catholic Centres in Australia: A Vibrant Marian Faith
Across Australia, Croatian Catholic Centres—from Sydney and Melbourne to Perth and Brisbane—play a vital role in preserving and nurturing this Marian devotion. These centres become places of communal prayer and spiritual renewal throughout May, as faithful families gather to pray the Rosary, sing Marian hymns, and attend special Masses dedicated to the Blessed Mother.
In many parishes, beautiful Marian altars are adorned with flowers and candles, symbolising the purity and love of the Virgin. Children are often involved in the celebrations, learning early the beauty of faith and the closeness of Mary’s maternal heart.
Croatian Catholic communities take special pride in maintaining these traditions, passing them down from one generation to the next with reverence and affection.
A Mother for All Seasons, A Guide for All Times
The Blessed Virgin Mary is not only honoured during May; she is a constant companion on the journey of faith. Yet, this month reminds us in a special way that we are not alone in our struggles. Mary, our heavenly Mother, watches over us, prays for us, and leads us closer to her Son.
In today’s world, where distractions and challenges can pull us away from our spiritual roots, Croatian Catholic communities in Australia find strength and unity in Mary’s example. Her humility, courage, and unwavering trust in God remain a guiding light.
By participating in May devotions, the faithful seek not only to honour Mary but also to grow in their own spiritual lives—drawing closer to God under the protection of her loving mantle.
As the month of May unfolds, Croatian Catholic Centres in Australia stand as beacons of Marian devotion, living out a faith rich in tradition, prayer, and love. Through the Rosary, liturgies, and community gatherings, they echo the prayer of generations:
“Mary, our Mother, we follow you, so that we may never lose our way.”
Let this May be a time of renewed dedication, heartfelt prayer, and deep joy, knowing that under the shelter of Mary’s mantle, we are truly safe.
Crowning Mary with Flowers – A Symbol of Love and Honour
One of the most cherished traditions during the month of May is the crowning of the Blessed Virgin Mary with a wreath or crown made of fresh flowers. This simple yet profound gesture is a symbol of love, reverence, and recognition of Mary as the Queen of Heaven and of our hearts.
The crown, made by hand with seasonal blossoms, represents the beauty and purity of Mary, and our desire to offer her the best of what we have with grateful hearts. It is also a way to involve the younger generation in the life of the Church, teaching them devotion through a meaningful and tangible act.
This tradition, rich in symbolism and emotion, reminds us that Mary is not only the mother of Jesus but also our spiritual Queen—gentle, loving, and always interceding for us. Crowning her with flowers becomes a moment of deep connection, where we entrust our prayers, joys, and hopes to her maternal care.
For the schedule of Holy Rosary prayers during the month of May in Croatian Catholic Centres, please check with your local parish.