Aglona prepares for tens of thousands of pilgrims

Aglona is preparing to receive tens of thousands of pilgrims and event visitors for the Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, LSM reported. The event is expected to draw large crowds from Latvia and abroad from August 11 to 15.

Traffic arrangements, accommodation and other practical issues are being planned in advance so that participants can attend safely. The preparations involve pilgrims, the church, security services, accommodation providers and the local community.

Many believers travel to Aglona on foot, covering several hundred kilometres to take part in religious services, prayers and other spiritual events. A group has also set out from Ludza, travelling to Aglona and visiting other churches in Latgale along the way.

Aina Petrovska, who is making the pilgrimage for the 22nd time, said people simply had to find the courage to begin.

“Every person has their own intentions and goals for why they do it. But together, all of this creates a sense of belonging to one’s country and people. The most important thing is to mature spiritually,” she said.

Juris Skutels, parish priest of Aglona Basilica, said the festival programme remains unchanged each year, although extensive preparations are still required before the celebrations begin.

“Before the festival, there are still many small tasks that have not been completed, and there are many helpers. There is a list to go through and things to check, to see which tasks have been completed and which still have to be finished at the last minute,” he said.

All accommodation in the Aglona area has already been fully booked, with visitors making reservations well in advance. The Cakuls family holiday complex and guesthouse accommodate about 100 visitors to the Aglona celebrations each year.

“Guests have been coming to us for 20 years. The same people come all the time, perhaps with one or two changes. They arrive and say that they will be back next year,” guesthouse owner Rolands Cakuls said.

About 900 pilgrims from parishes and individuals have already registered to stay at the hotel operated by the Aglona Pilgrim Communications Centre.

State Police officers will work in an enhanced mode during the celebrations, focusing on public order and the safety of residents.