BRAZIL, Sr. M. Anadir Santini. On 22 November 2009, a large number of pilgrims celebrated Fr. Joseph Kentenich’s birthday in Atibaia, Sao Paulo.
Sr. M. Glaucia of the Pilgrimage Pastoral Work had planned the event beforehand and the celebration fell on the date for the pilgrimage of the last three deaconries of the Bragança Paulista Diocese. During Holy Mass, the Pilgrim Tent was filled to capacity with 6,000 people. Twelve panels containing a photograph and phrases by or about Fr. Kentenich were placed among the palm trees lining the path that leads to the Shrine. Upon the arrival of each busload, everyone was given a small flag for the feast day. After the welcome, the people were directed to the Shrine and the Heroes’ Monument. Everything was focused on the priestly person of the founder.
The priestly personof the founder
During the morning’s programme, Sr. M. Anadir from the Fr. Kentenich Secretariat explained the importance of Fr. Kentenich as a priestly model of faithfulness to Christ and the Church and spoke about his beatification process. She urged the people to pray for a miracle of intercession by the Servant of God, Fr. Joseph Kentenich. Pamphlets were distributed and everyone recited the beatification prayer together.
Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament took place at 11 o’clock in the Pilgrim Tent and after lunch, everyone joined in renewing their baptismal promises by lighting candles and crowning our MTA as the Queen of Faith.
The day ended with a well attended Holy Mass, celebrated by the diocesan administrator, since the bishop was visiting “Ad Limina” in Rome. After Mass, the Blessing for Families was given, followed by the blessing of the water and objects.
After the Eucharistic celebration, everyone joyfully found their bus or car to return home.
