Permanent Pictorial Cancellation inaugural day covers

Description: Mattom, a village in the Chalakudy in Thrissur District Kerala has the Shrine of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, popularly known as Baclaran Church, which is one of the most revered Marian shrines in the world and a major centre of Catholic devotion in the Philippines. Located in Parañaque, the shrine is dedicated to the miraculous icon of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, a symbol of comfort, protection, and hope for millions of devotees. The origins of the shrine date back to the early twentieth century when Redemptorist missionaries spread devotion to Our Lady of Perpetual Help. 

The present church, completed in 1952, was built to accommodate the growing number of pilgrims drawn to the sacred icon and the popular novena devotions. The shrine became especially famous for its Wednesday Novena, during which thousands gather weekly to offer prayers, seek blessings, and give thanks for favours received. Architecturally, the shrine is admired for its grand Romanesque style, spacious interior, and inspiring atmosphere of prayer. At its heart is the revered icon of Our Lady, enshrined above the main altar, drawing worshippers from all walks of life. 

The shrine is notable for being open around the clock, welcoming pilgrims day and night. Beyond being a place of worship, the shrine symbolises faith, compassion, and community service. It has long served as a spiritual refuge, offering charitable outreach and support to the needy. For many, a visit to the Shrine of Our Lady of Perpetual Help is both a religious pilgrimage and a deeply personal encounter with faith. Today, the shrine remains a powerful symbol of devotion, where countless believers continue to seek perpetual help through prayer and trust in the loving intercession of the Blessed Mother.