Aglona celebrations draw 14,000 despite security concerns

About 14,000 people from Latvia and abroad attended the five-day celebrations of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Aglona, LSM reported. Amid threats to airspace, worshippers prayed not only for their loved ones but also for peace in Latvia and around the world.

Some visitors to the main Mass at Aglona Basilica were pilgrims who had arrived several days earlier. As their fatigue eased, they spoke with satisfaction about the journeys they had completed, which lasted from two days to more than 10 days.

One pilgrim said they had walked 104 kilometres to Aglona over six days. Another said a group of 104 people had travelled from Nīdermuiža over three days, including around 50 children.

Each worshipper came with a personal intention, while many were united in praying for peace in Latvia and around the world.

The theme of peace was especially prominent because of the war in Ukraine and recent threats to airspace, including during the celebrations. Juris Skutels, parish priest of Aglona Basilica, said many priests had raised peace as a central theme in their talks and prayers, urging people not to remain indifferent and to remain vigilant for peace of mind, peace in their families and peace in the country.