Darsana Samooham (ദർശന സമൂഹം) is a traditional lay devotional association organized in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary. It has an important role in parish devotional life, especially in connection with the with the annual parish feast.
The Darshana Samooham is known as the bodyguard of the Blessed Virgin Mary. It originated in Portugal, and it was they who introduced it in India. Membership in this organization is given to women and men who are above twelve years of age and who have received Holy Communion and Confirmation. The office-bearers of the organization are called “Comperia.” Fr. Joseph Mathew Adopillil started the Darsana Samooham Ministry 2019.
The Darsana Samooham traditionally aims to:
- Promote devotion to the patron saint or Mary
- Encourage members to participate actively in the sacraments and parish spiritual life
- Assist in organizing the annual parish feast
- Take leadership in the feast procession and other devotional ceremonies
- Support charitable and charitable-related activities of the parish
- Strengthen fellowship and unity among parishioners