First edition of the Ourous 2025 diocesan pilgrimage

After receiving the approval of Monsignor MOÏSE, Bishop of the Diocese of Boké, the Priests, Brothers and Sisters of the Deanery of Louis BARRY met on several occasions to set up committees to oversee the various preparatory activities. It was not at all easy, and the involvement of the lay faithful was essential. ‘How can we accommodate so many people?’ This was the main question under discussion. However, by the grace of God, we were able to identify a few accommodation sites, including the school of the Brothers of Saint Gabriel (the main site), the boarding school of the Sisters of Our Lady of Guinea, and some villages such as Ourous, Ourakar, Youkounkoun and Ithiou.

It is important to point out that the first diocesan pilgrimage took place in Ourous. It brought together several parishes and lasted four days, from 6 to 9 February 2025. On Wednesday night, there was already the great Koundara-Youkounkoun march. After taking a long break in a village called Thiakour, the pilgrims headed for Youkounkoun on Thursday at 10 a.m., where they received a warm welcome from the parishioners of Ourous and other villages. They find Ithiou in prayer, a village that had once refused the first missionaries. Passing through Ithiou is like following in the footsteps of the first missionaries, in accordance with the theme of the pilgrimage: ‘Remember those who have announced the word of God to you and imitate their faith’ (Hebrews 13:7). From Ithiou to the great Cross, from the great Cross to the Grotto, and so on, they finish with a prayer and then the pilgrims returns to their accommodation.

‘The pilgrims’ route begins in front of the Marian grotto. Continuing on our way, we arrive at the cemetery where the missionaries and witnesses of the faith rest. This route continues towards the glorious cross, a powerful symbol of salvation and peace. This journey continues in front of the statue of Saint Rose of Lima. We end our pilgrimage in the church, in front of the Blessed Sacrament'.

Throughout the four days, the main activities were prayer, teachings, masses and confession. We must salute the presence of the Provincial Superior Brother Etienne KA and Mrs Diop at the pilgrimage.