More than two hundred and thirty people made the pilgrimage from Funchal to Machico today.
Leaving Funchal at 08:30, they had arrived in Assomada, Caniço, at approximately midday where they stopped for a quick snack before heading back onto the road.
Pilgrimage organiser, Paula Garcia, said that before leaving Campo da Barca, Funchal, this morning, the Bishop of Funchal, D. Nuno Brás, blessed all those taking part, saying that possibly next year he will also be able to take part in this historic walk. As with Forrest Gump, the pilgrims attracted other walkers along the way.
They were scheduled to arrive in Machico at 17:30, where they hoped to be met by fellow pilgrims and the local parish priest, before laying flowers as part of their devotion and faith to the Lord of Miracles.
At 20:00, the end of day celebrations began with the Machico do Senhor dos Milagres; the procession started from Largo dos Milagres and ended at the Igreja Matriz. This was then followed by Mass, which was presided over by the Bishop of Funchal.
Samantha Gannon
info at madeira-weekly.com
