Archbishop José Ángel Saiz Meneses presides over Mass for 175th anniversary of image of Nuestra Señora de la Soledad

Archbishop José Ángel Saiz Meneses presided over Mass at the San Buenaventura conventual church on Sunday, November 1, to mark the 175th anniversary of the image of Nuestra Señora de la Soledad. The celebration coincided with the Solemnity of All Saints.

During the homily, Archbishop Saiz Meneses noted that the image, created by Gabriel de Astorga Miranda, was blessed on April 11, 1851. He stated that generations of people in Seville have sought comfort through devotion to the image despite changes in customs and historical circumstances.

The Archbishop said the primary purpose of a brotherhood is to help its members achieve holiness. He explained that religious services, penitential processions, heritage, formation, charity, and the preservation of traditions should all lead members toward Jesus Christ.