Poperinge – Procession of Our Lady

On the first Sunday of July, the tradition is that the Maria Ommegang (Marian procession) is held in Poperinge, West Flanders. The origin of the Marian procession dates back to 1479 when a baby was stillborn in Poperinge on 11 March. The child was then buried in the parents' garden. On 14 March 1479, the child was exhumed and found to be alive. The little child was immediately baptised, after which the infant died. The miraculous event became known to a wider public, and a church inquiry was initiated. On 12 June 1481, the findings of the two-year investigation were released, and it was declared that the miracle was genuine. The miracle is attributed to Our Lady of Saint John, and this led to a great surge in Marian devotion. Since 1481, the procession has taken place through the town.

The 500-year-old Maria Ommegang procession involves around 1000 participants, with nearly 100 people involved in its preparation. Remarkably, all the floats, both large and small, are pulled or pushed by horses or people.

The long procession showcases the city's entire history, including its origin and Christianisation, periods of prosperity, setbacks, a miracle, devotion, and then a second part featuring Mary in the life of Jesus. This section of the procession focuses on the Mother of Jesus and the Mother of us. The third and final part of the annual Marian procession centres on the contemporary veneration of Mary, with the honouring of Our Lady of Sint-Jan and remaining faithful to Mary. The miraculous image is carried on a beautifully decorated float.

The St. Mary's procession shows a clear structure, the participants look well-presented with appropriate clothing, recitations are clearly audible, a lot of music is performed by groups and individuals, the singing is easily heard, things are tidied up promptly where horses leave messes, many children have a place in the procession, and floats join the procession with the pulling and pushing power of horses and people. Where devotion is required, it is done, and when there is time for exuberance, it is expressed in the correct manner.

After the Maria Ommegang procession through the streets of the town centre, there is a solemn ceremony at St. John's Church. Attending the Maria Ommegang in Poperinge is highly recommended.

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