Santuário Nacional de Aparecida starts Novena of the Patroness

The National Shrine of Aparecida began its novena for the patroness of Brazil on Saturday, October 3. The series of prayers and celebrations runs through October 11 under the theme "With Mary, in community, knowing and practicing the Word."

The first day of festivities included a bicycle ride starting from the Tribuna Dom Aloísio Lorscheider and a Mass presided over by Father Pablo Vinícius Moreira, CSsR. During his homily, Father Moreira spoke about Mary's role in leading believers to Jesus and the importance of the Eucharist in gathering the community.

The celebrations lead up to the solemn feast of Our Lady Aparecida on October 12.