On a bright spring day in Liverpool city centre, faith and tradition met the bustle of everyday life as the annual Marian Procession, organised by the Missionaries of Charity, marked its 20th anniversary with a joyful public witness to the Catholic faith.

The procession began, as it has for two decades, at the Missionaries of Charity house in Seel Street, winding its way through Bold Street, Church Street, and Whitechapel, before concluding with a short service before the Blessed Sacrament in Queen Square.

Father Peter Ross, ordained in 2024 and currently serving at St Bede’s, Widnes, led the prayers and hymns when the procession paused at the bottom of Bold Street. As a teenager, Fr Peter had walked the same route — and this year, he returned not as a participant, but as its leader. “It was particularly meaningful to see Fr Peter, my nephew, now leading the walk he once joined as a young pilgrim,” said Jim Ross, writing on behalf of the Missionaries of Charity.

Several children in their First Holy Communion dresses scattered rose petals at the feet of the statue of Our Lady. Many passers-by and busy shoppers paused to join in the hymns.

There were also touches of light-heartedness, especially when the group paused outside bustling cafés. “People enjoying tea and coffee joined in good humour,” Jim shared.

“About 150 walkers belted out ‘O Mary, we crown thee with blossom today,’ and some of the public sang along.”

Now in its 20th year, this much-loved event continues to offer a peaceful, prayerful presence in the heart of the city.

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