ARGENTINA, Juan Barbosa. In a very special place and in a densely populated neighborhood of the city of Córdoba– a square, the Wayside Shrine of our Lady of Schoenstatt was blessed. But it was not just any other square; rather, it is the “Father Joseph Kentenich Square,” and there is a sign saying that it is a square for all. The conclusion that was reached a few minutes after hearing the news was: Then…Father Kentenich is for all! Absolutely YES.
Un poco de historia
“Córdoba: Learned, Religious and Revolutionary”. This is how Father Horacio Sosa Carbó defined this province that has always been known for its restlessness and overwhelming character. Embodying these characteristics, it was a missionary with such a low profile like all the missionaries the world over, who made great efforts to name this Square “Father Joseph Kentenich” something that was accomplished on November 11, 2000, according to an ordinance approved by the then City Council. Different things caused the name to be forgotten until “one who loves the Blessed Mother, as one participant of the ceremony defined her, became aware that this existed and with the same trait and strength of that predecessor, she brought up the subject redoubling efforts: signs had to be placed and moreover…A Wayside Shrine had to be blessed!
The Happy Family of Córdoba!
Among the surprises the communication stated was the news that there was a “fixed date”: The re-inauguration of the Square and the Blessing of the Wayside Shrine would be held on August 8, 2013…Hurry! Missionaries, builders, Family Council, pilgrims, everyone was UNITED at the time of “hurrying for the Blessed Mother” and reaching this date with everything finished. Telephone calls, meetings, emails, every means of communication was used to inform the entire Family about this event of which many were uninformed…A square with the Founder’s name! A gift on the road to 2014, when the Schoenstatt Family will celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the Covenant of Love with Mary that marked the beginning of this Work of God.
An unforgettable framework
Not even the temperature of 4°C, the cloudy day, or the “piercing” wind were able to intimidate a truly happy family, which came in a large number to the Wayside Shrine. An imposing marker etched withthe name of the Schoenstatt Founder will forever bear the name of this square; a strongly built construction will support the picture of the Mother of God, who will lovingly “observe” everyone who approaches this square from Her Wayside Shrine, since it is located at the highest point.
Words by Father Gerardo Cárcar, the blessing of the Wayside Shrine by the Pastor Father Rufino and then a passionate and touching speech by the Deputy Mayor of the City of Córdoba, Dr. Marcelo Cossar, formally re-established the FATHER JOSEPH KENTENICH SQUARE and the Wayside Shrine of Our Lady of Schoenstatt that will offer a closeness to everyone who turns to Her.
Of course…the maintenance of the square will be carried out by the missionaries, who give their hearts daily to the Blessed Mother!
The sign that identifies Father Joseph Kentenich Square indicates that it is square for all.
Clearly, the conclusion that was suggested to us is very appropriate–… Father JosephKentenich is a father for all!
Original Spanish –English Translation Celina M. Garza San Antonio, Tx. USA
