On 18 May 2024, the Order of Malta Association in Romania (AROM), together with Knights from the Hungarian Association (MMLSZ), joined together to lead the procession at the Şumuleu Ciuc/Csíksomlyó Pentecost Pilgrimage in Harghita County, Romania. Despite the heavy rain in the morning, the weather cleared for a stunning procession and Mass, which brought together around 400,000 people from across Romania, Hungary, and far beyond. As per tradition, the Mass was held in the open air, in the valley clearing between the mountains of Şumuleul Mic and Şumuleul Mare. The pilgrimage is the largest annual celebration of Catholics in Romania. Held at Pentecost, the pilgrimage dates back more than 450 years to 1567, marking the peaceful retreat of the Prince János Zsigmond’s army which was considered as a miracle through the intercession of Mary.

Written by: James Michael Wilson, https://twitter.com/James_M_Wilson