With a profound spirit of devotion and communion, the faithful of Cojedes state are preparing to celebrate the traditional Patron Saint Festivities in honor of Mary, Mother of the Divine Shepherd, patroness of the Diocese of San Carlos. Under the motto "Today we walk together under her mantle," the festivities will center in the town of Lagunita, in the municipality of Ricaurte, bringing together thousands of devotees for a program filled with faith and ecclesial gatherings.
The details of the program were presented at a press conference by Bishop Alexander Rivera Vielma, accompanied by parish priest Gilberto Sánchez and priests Enrique Loreto and Jhonluis Garabán. Church authorities emphasized that the activities aim to strengthen the spirituality and unity of the communities in the Llanos region.
The Diocese also has a program planned that will include a choral festival, the traditional novena, and the solemn diaconal ordination of acolyte Isaiah Fuenmayor.
Schedule of activities
On Saturday, August 29, the festivities officially begin at 10:00 AM with a colorful Children's Choir Festival at the Lagunita church. In the afternoon, the traditional novena will begin, featuring visits from priests from various pastoral zones.
Activities continue on Monday, September 7, with the Legion of Mary, which is celebrating 45 years of fruitful work in the Diocese of San Carlos, and will be in charge of the emotional presentation of the Virgin's dress and the ornamentation that will adorn her image during the celebrations.
On Tuesday, September 8 (Main Day), the main activities will begin at 10:00 AM with a solemn Eucharist in the Plaza Bolívar of Lagunita, presided over by high ecclesiastical authorities and surrounded by thousands of pilgrims from all over the region.
A double reason for ecclesial joy
The main celebration on September 8 will be framed by a historic event for the local Church: the acolyte Isaías Fuenmayor will receive the Diaconal Ordination, taking a transcendental step in his path of service and consecration to God and the Church.
To ensure the success of the massive gathering, Monsignor Alexander Rivera Vielma extended special recognition to the ongoing support of national and regional institutions dedicated to logistical coordination and the safety of attendees.
