Nealy 200 people turned out for the St Helens annual family rosary procession diamond jubilee on Sunday 5 October.  

The event has along tradition in St Helens dating back to the late 1950s when a local man and parishioner of Holy Cross Church, Martin Byrne promised an annual rosary procession following a successful recovery from serious illness. Its return following a period of interruption was joyfully received by the faithful of St Helens.

A great number, including families, came out to pray the rosary despite the weather and strong winds. It turned out to be an inspiring day.

The walk through the town centre went from Holy Cross and St Helen Church to the Parish Church and back. It was led by Fr Jino Arikkatt MCBS with the Mayor of St Helens ,Councillor Severiano Gomez-Aspron MBE together with the Deputy Leader of the Council Martin Bond and two more St Helens Councillors Anne McCormack, and Niall Campbell walking the route. Fr Jino announced the prayer intentions - for the country, for St Helens, our families, and personal intentions

In the Catholic Church, October is seen as a special month of devotion through the rosary to the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God, ‘Our Lady’.

During the procession, ten decades of the Holy Rosary were recited – The Glorious Mysteries and the Mysteries of Light.

The procession concluded with the traditional sung Benediction service. Fr Jino expressed his gratitude to the participants and thanked the organisers and the stewards and St John Ambulance for their involvement.

The St Helens annual family rosary procession always takes place on the first Sunday in October - known as ‘Rosary Sunday’.

Next year’s event will take place on Sunday October 4 2026.