From March 20 to 22, the 54th National Pilgrimage of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul took place in Aparecida, one of the largest Vincentian events in the world. With the theme “Learning with Mary to Care in Order to Serve,” the pilgrimage brought together approximately 40,000 Vincentians from various regions of Brazil as well as from countries across Latin America. Among the participants, 12 priests of the Congregation of the Mission were especially notable for their presence, strengthening the bond between spirituality, mission, and service to the poorest.

The program was lived intensely throughout the three days, bringing together moments of faith, formation, and cultural expression. On the first day, the pilgrims participated in the Rosary along the Rosary Path, coordinated by the National Council of the Vincentian Family of Brazil, focusing on awareness and the fight against femicide. This powerful moment of prayer and reflection invited participants to make a concrete commitment to the defense of life, especially the lives of women in situations of vulnerability.

The second day was marked by a rich variety of activities. The Way of the Cross led the faithful to meditate on the suffering of Christ and to care for themselves and for the pains of today’s world. Next, the Talent Show of the Children and Adolescents Conferences delighted those present, highlighting the leadership and active participation of the younger generations. The Workshop of the Antônio Frederico Ozanam Formation School (ECAFO), with the theme “Forming and Inspiring to Serve,” offered a profound reflection on Vincentian formation, while the Ozanam Cultural Festival engaged young people in an atmosphere of joy, creativity, and lived experience of the charism.

The high point of the pilgrimage took place on the third day, with the Regulatory Celebration and the Closing Mass at the Padre Vítor Events Center, presided over by Fr. Allan Ferreira, CM, national advisor of the SSVP, and concelebrated by priests, deacons, and spiritual advisors from various regions. In his testimony, Fr. Cleber Teodósio, CM, expressed the depth of the experience lived:

“Being here renews our missionary zeal. Seeing thousands of Vincentians gathered together, we realize that the charism of St. Vincent de Paul remains alive and vibrant. We leave here strengthened to serve with greater love and commitment alongside the poor.”

At the end of the gathering, what remained in the hearts of the participants was the certainty that the Vincentian mission is strengthened through communion, prayer, and concrete service. Attention is already turning toward the next edition: the 55th National Pilgrimage of the SSVP in Aparecida – SP, scheduled to take place from April 30 to May 2, 2027. May the example of Mary continue to inspire every Vincentian to care with tenderness and serve with dedication.

Long live the Vincentian Charism!

Source: https://vocacaovicentina.blogspot.com/