Everywhere: 86th Feast of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart: ‘Mother of Hope’

Early in the morning, caravans of devotees arrived from all corners of Brazil. Other devotees were already there on the hill of Vila Formosa, ready to welcome the pilgrims. The Chevalier Family: Missionaries of the Sacred Heart, Daughters of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, lay men and women all gathered in the same spirit as their founder to honour Mary in a special way.

The first Mass, presided over by the Provincial Father, Fr. Luís Carlos Araújo Moraes, was followed by preparations for the procession. The faithful took to the streets of the neighbourhood, among them our exalted patroness. The tower of the sanctuary, with its 47 bells, joined its song to that of the people, and together they sang praises to Our Lady of the Sacred Heart. The Solemn Mass was presided over by Dom Manoel Ferreira dos Santos Júnior, MSC – bishop of the Diocese of Registro, in the interior of São Paulo.

Dom Ricardo Pedro Paglia, MSC – bishop emeritus of Pinheiro, MA – presided over one of the most anticipated moments: the coronation of the image of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart. Very moved, he testified, as Chevalier, that ‘she has done everything in our favour,’ preparing and sustaining the mission entrusted to our congregation. The celebrations of the 86th Feast of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart ended with a third Mass, presided over by the rector of the sanctuary, Fr. Girley de Oliveira Reis, MSC, to whom we offer our congratulations for his work and dedication.

Elinaldo Assunção, MSC (Brazil)