Minor Basilica of St. Anne, Bukit Mertajam
The Church of St. Anne, now elevated to the Minor Basilica of St. Anne since the 5th of September 2019, intensifies the bond with the Church of Rome and with the Pope, who is known to the Catholic Church endearingly as the Holy Father. Housed in the Minor Basilica of St. Anne, the first of its kind in Southeast Asia, the Shrine of Harmony brings together pilgrims and devotees from different nationalities and faiths in earnest prayer and devotion as they seek the intercession of Saint Anne. The Shrine of Harmony was named thus as it gathered those of different faiths and reflects a model of Liturgical and Pastoral harmony in the Diocese of Penang and beyond. We offer our heartfelt thanks and gratitude for all the pilgrims who have experienced the enriching presence of God through the intercession of Saint Anne and we pray that more will be touched as they make their pilgrimage to the Shrine of Harmony.
.jpeg)
YOUR TESTIMONY
We would like to hear your story too! Share with us how God has touched your life through the intercession of Saint Anne.
Who is St. Anne?
Meet Saint Anne, the incredibly influential grandmother of Jesus Christ and a truly remarkable woman! This remarkable patron saint of mothers, grandparents, and families has encapsulated hearts around the world for centuries. Dive into the awe-inspiring story of Saint Anne and learn how her life and legacy can touch your heart today.
​
Saint Anne, also known as "Hannah" in Hebrew, holds a special place as the mother of the Virgin Mary, and thereby the grandmother of Jesus Christ. Although not explicitly mentioned in the Bible, her life and story have been passed down through generations in Christian tradition and various apocryphal texts.
​
Born during the first century BC in Bethlehem, Saint Anne and her husband, Saint Joachim, faced initial struggles with childlessness. Bound by their unwavering faith in God, they prayed earnestly, and their prayers were answered with the miraculous birth of their daughter, Mary. With immense love and dedication, they raised Mary to become a woman of virtue, who would eventually become the mother of Jesus Christ.
​
For centuries, Saint Anne has been venerated for her steadfast faith and selfless love for her family. She is considered the patron saint of housewives, women in labor, and childless couples – her intercession has brought comfort and guidance to countless souls throughout history.
​
Despite living more than 2,000 years ago, Saint Anne's life continues to resonate with us today. Here's how her enduring legacy and virtues can inspire and guide our lives:
​
- Unwavering Faith: Saint Anne reminds us never to give up on our prayers and trust in God's divine plan for us. In moments of despair, let us find strength and hope in her unwavering faith and perseverance.
​
- Patience in Suffering: Saint Anne's struggle with childlessness and the eventual joy of motherhood teaches us the importance of patience and the enduring power of hope.
​
- Championing Family Values: As the matriarch of the Holy Family, Saint Anne is the perfect example of nurturing a loving, supportive, and faith-filled family environment. Let us follow her example and be inspired to create strong spiritual foundations for our families.
​
- Celebrating the Wisdom of Grandparents: In honoring Saint Anne, we appreciate and rejoice in the vital role that grandparents play in the lives of their grandchildren and families. Let us cherish the wisdom, love, and joy that they impart in our lives.
​
Saint Anne's inspiring life encourages us to be strong, faithful, and devoted individuals. As we continue to celebrate and cherish her legacy, we find solace, guidance, and love in her enduring presence.
St Anne was the mother of Mary
and the grandmother of Jesus
St. Anne is the patron of mothers,
child care workers, and those who experience infertility.
By embracing her virtues, we can create bonds across generations that will stand as a testament to Saint Anne's incredible influence on our lives today. So, come along and be inspired by the extraordinary story of Saint Anne and carry her light into your life.
Latest News and Announcements
