GERMANY, Jorgelina Jordá. While a sunny morning awakens the inhabitants of the town of Gymnich, a pilgrimage of Schoenstatters and parishioners travels through its streets celebrating the 100th Anniversary of Father Kentenich’s ordination. The town reflected that over time it has gained a perspective, and it values being Father Kentenich’s town in all its dimensions.
The pilgrimage arrived at the Saint Kunibert Parish where Joseph Kentenich was baptized and where by a choir of young and joyful souls welcomed them.
The pilgrims saw the figure of a Pelican on the tabernacle, therefore one may ask if this image influenced Father Kentenich’s infancy a great deal so that later it would become a symbol of his priestly identity. Added to this ideal from his life, the reading of the Good Shepherd complemented it, thereby reflecting the authentic figure of our founder: “I am the Good Shepherd. The good shepherd gives his life for its sheep.”
Who would think that in such a small and simple town a man would be born who would give his life for the spiritual growth of Thousands of people throughout the world?
“What is so special about Father Ketenich? Why is the entire world celebrating him today? Why do so many people who come to Germany especially come to Gymnich? What is awakened in us?” – Father Breitinger, the provincial of the Schoenstatt Fathers in Germany, asked in his homily.
The reality is that the people of Gymnich have learned about its great treasure through the mysterious pilgrimages that come from allover the world.
People from Chile, Argentina, Paraguay, and of course, Germans loyal to Father Kentenich participated in the celebration. There were also Sisters of Mary, and there were several priests who con-celebrated the Mass.
It was truly a celebration including barbeque held in the garden of his birthplace. It felt as if we had been invited by Katherine Kentenich to celebrate for her son! It was like feeling at home! In spite of the very high heat, heart-felt joy distracted everyone from the discomfort of the temperature.
A family home
The Kentenich home is more like the original with each passing day. Currently the room of his birth is a place of prayer, it also has a kitchen, and dining room so that the pilgrim can feel welcome when he arrives.
It is not just a museum, but it is a house offering hospitality and a family atmosphere, just like the founder would have wanted his home to be. Two relics can be seen there that father gave his mother when he was ordained as a priest.
Many people experience a more human Father Kentenich in this place, just another person among us, but with the heroism of the living God in daily life. The inhabitants of the town are fortunate to have given a man of God to this world.
Video
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Translation: Celina Garza, Melissa Janknegt, USA
