 |
 |
Estatua de la Sagrada Familia Statue of the Holy Family Statue der Heiligen Familie |
|
 |
|
Se talla la estatua... The statue is being carved... Die Statue entsteht… |
|
 |
|
Un abrazo paternal A fatherly ambrace… Väterliche Umarmung Fotos: Barbosa © 2006 |
|
|
|
ARGENTINA, Juan Barbosa. At this time, the Family of Córdoba, Argentina, is on the road to conquering an objective that is getting closer! And what is this goal? The statue of Saint Joseph in the Holy Family that will be enthroned in two Shrines of Córdoba.
After so much spiritual work to conquer the symbol of the Holy Spirit for the Shrine del Cerro and its erection in the year 2005, the flourishing Family of Córdoba, Argentina was left with the "need to continue growing". Their general restlessness and the impetus of the spirit of conquest were safe and they should be satisfied.
Because of the extremely difficult situation that Argentina went through in the year 2002, the difficulties had to be sorted out in order to finish the construction of the Shrine of Life and of Hope, and the theft of the Saint Joseph statue that occurred some time ago in the Shrine of Villa Warcalde, made them see the next step very clearly: the conquering of the image of Saint Joseph was imperative for the times.
The Family Work, once advised by Father Javier Arteaga –now the National Director of the Movement – assumed the responsibility of being guarantee of the conquest, and then of proposing it to Father Juan José, Diocesan Director of the Movement in 2005, (who did not delay "not even for a second" in supporting the initiative), it was resolved to take the idea to the Family Council. They began to build spiritually!
Hands to the Task!
At the beginning of the year 2006 this initiative was gaining strength, and what had been a proposal, began shape with concrete deeds and necessity made them accelerate the project.
Support emerged from many communities in Argentina (Goya, in Corrientes; Mendoza; San Isidro; Villa Ballester; Buenos Aires, among many more), from the Schoenstatt Fathers from Argentina as well as from other countries, of the beloved Schoenstatt.de Press Office, and the Sisters of Mary, who quickly joined the prayer chains and novenas that were organized for the conquest of the statueof the "Saint par excellance", the greatest "Non-protagonist in history". It is important to stress that in March of this year, A novena to Saint Joseph was written by Father Marcelo Gallardo, that showed new aspects of Saint Joseph that are very applicable to daily life.
Important decisions were made, such as the forming of an executive commission with the Fathers ( Father Marcelo Gallardo and the Sisters of Mary (Sister Mary Pilar) as advisers; guidelines for action were established in the different branches and in the apostolic work of the Movement, and the statue was ordered. This seems so simple, but it took months of selection until it was finally decided.
The picture that reposes hidden within a block of wood begins to come forth to "invade" hearts with its tenderness.
Once this stream of conquest was defined like one of the two that marked the Family from Córdoba during the year 2006 (the other one being nothing less that the defense of life), the work in the branches and the apostolic work is very intense and on-going.
The meetings began with "5 Saint Joseph Minutes"; there were reflections about his virtues that were read before each Holy Mass; they were present on Saint Joseph Day, at San José Obero, Fathers’ Day, etc. These are only some examples of the work that this Family from Córdoba is carrying out for this conquest.
The Capital of Grace continues to grow and it is recorded in the Capital of Grace of both Shrines (some contributions are even received through Internet and they are punctually recorded!) There are already more than 20,000 contributions. And material contributions should also be made.
Presently – as Christmas draws near, where traditionally there are sweets on the family table – a campaign called "Sweet bread for Saint Joseph" is being undertaken. After all the Holy Masses that are celebrated in the Shrines delicious artisan pastry is offered. (this is affirmed on the "authority" of the author of this article), at a reasonable price, and it has been well received by the Family. During two weekends 328 pieces have been sold, thanks to the support of all the Family. And there will be more since they must sell at least one thousand pieces! Different campaigns will continue, since we are counting on the well known generosity of this Family, which easily says yes.
Enthronements
The Family has decided that the statue will go on pilgrimage to the members and they will be enthroned in the Shrines, during the month of August 2007. Until then there will be more news about this on Schoenstatt.de
Published in Editorial Patris Argentina: Father Marcelo Gallardo, Novena to San Joseph (Spanish), ISBN 950-9579-65-3, editorial-patris-argentina@schoenstatt.org.ar