ARGENTINA, Silvia Losada. On Sunday, April 22nd, the day was cold and cloudy as if the Blessed Mother was saying: “Show me with deeds…” Groups of children accompanied by their parents and relatives could be seen through the windows of the multi- purpose hall at the Tucamán Shrine. After visiting Mary at her throne of grace, they came to the hall where their lives would change. They would become instruments of the Blessed Mother; they would become her arms and feet.
Consecration of young missionaries in the Shrine of Tucumán
The missionaries, who had prepared them for this day, looked with affection on the work of so many days of dedication: seventy-eight children and youth were consecrated as missionaries. In some cases, two children carried one image, in others, each one assumed the mission in a personal way.
Children from Lules, Tafí Viejo, San José, Yerba Buena, Saint John the Cross Parish and the center of the city will take fifty-four Pilgrim MTAs to their schools so that Mary will go on pilgrimage among the families of their companions and teachers. Many took on the mission for the first time, but there were some who again chose to be the Blessed Mother’s little donkeys.
This mission is carried out during the school year. The young missionaries receive the Pilgrim MTAs at the beginning of the school year, and they return to the Shrine at the end of the year.
After a time of refreshment where bonds could be established, Father Guillermo Cassone welcomed them, and he began the consecration ceremony. “She is the great missionary; She will work miracles,” rose from the lips of those who approached to receive their Pilgrim MTA, because they already felt this.
With the joy of knowing Mary sheltered them
Although the sun was hidden on this day, the children’s smiles illuminated the afternoon. Their enthusiasm, freshness, and joy infected those who attended to share such an important event. With their Pilgrim MTAs on high, they continued to sing: “She is the great missionary, She will work miracles!!!” Their faces were turned toward the Shrine, greeting the Blessed Mother.
During the offertory of the Holy Mass, seventy-eight white flowers were taken to the altar by a group of young missionaries. These flowers, which symbolized innocence, were offered along with a dish where each child placed a heart on which they had written their personal offering.
Nahuel, whose birthday was April 17th, asked if this was his birthday present!
After Mass, the awaited group photo was taken and of course, there was one of each child with their parents and friends.
The mission is just beginning. Every year it bears much fruit. In this way, She again walks as Mother and Educator in the schools of this garden of the Tucumán Republic.
Celina M. Garza, San Antonio, Tx: English translation
