As part of the celebration of the Centenary of Redemptorist presence in Venezuela, various activities have been taking place since March.
On this occasion, a gathering was held for devotees and archconfraternity members of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, with participation from communities in Caracas, San Cristóbal, and Barquisimeto (San José, El Eneal, and El Manzano). Also present were the Redemptorist Mothers and the Missionary Sisters of Perpetual Help.
The event began on the afternoon of Friday, July 4, with the arrival of participants at the San Alfonso Pastoral Center in the city of Barquisimeto. After dinner, the central courtyard hosted a performance by the flamenco group Aires de Granada, who brought joyful energy to the opening of the event.
On Saturday, July 5, morning prayer was led by young Redemptorist aspirants. Two talks were held in the morning: the first, coordinated by Sr. Edith, Missionary of Perpetual Help, focused on the elements of the icon of Our Lady of Perpetual Help. The second was a historical approach to the icon, presented by Deacon Ely Saul Millán. In the afternoon, Fr. Aly Villegas reflected on the theological and liturgical meaning of the Icon, and finally, Fr. Alexander Nieves spoke about how to live with hope, guided by Mary.
The afternoon Eucharist, celebrated at the San José church with the local faithful, was presided over by Fr. Yorman Carrillo, who emphasized the gift of tenderness in light of the Word of God.
That night, after dinner, the Missionary Sisters of Perpetual Help (Srs. Marisol and Edith, and postulant Milena) led a Marian encounter in the form of a mental pilgrimage, drawing together the day’s experiences through song and poetry. The day concluded with a serenade to the Missionary Virgin of Perpetual Help, offered by parish groups and event organizers.
On the final day, Sunday, July 6, morning prayer was led by the Redemptorist Mothers (Diana and María Carmen), creating a contemplative atmosphere with vocational witness.
A space was opened for both female religious communities to share their charism and vocational experiences, encouraging the participants to become promoters of the Redemptorist charism.
The final talk, given by Fr. Aly, addressed the presence of the icon in Redemptorist spirituality and its role in evangelization, both in parish life and in missionary efforts.
With the joyful spirit characteristic of missionaries, a procession was held from the Pastoral Center to the parish church, to receive plenary indulgence for the centennial jubilee. The Eucharist was presided over by Fr. Aly Villegas, who highlighted the missionary vocation and presence.
He concluded by saying:
“True devotion to Our Lady of Perpetual Help means being present and attentive like Mary, with a disposition capable of holding things in the heart and meditating on them, as the Gospel tells us—being present, constant, persevering. These are elements, dear devotees of Perpetual Help, that we must reclaim today. We must leave this place renewed and strengthened. You are not merely devotees; today, you are missionaries. The Gospel truly makes you shine by carrying that help, that assistance, that perpetual aid, that redemption which is abundant and overflowing.”
May Our Lady of Perpetual Help continue to accompany us as missionaries of hope, following in the footsteps of the Redeemer.
Fr. Alexander Nieves, CSsR.
Redemptorist from Venezuela
