Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Bogota (Agenzia Fides) – A pilgrimage to the Shrine of Our Lady of Chiquinquira, held on November 16, marked the close of the first stage of the national campaign: “a million Rosaries for peace in Colombia and the liberation of all captives,” which began two years ago, by a group of lay faithful. At the close of the pilgrimage, there was a Mass held, followed by a concert given in honor of Our Blessed Mother. The second stage continues with the pursuit of unity in prayer, especially in the Holy Rosary, the strengthening of the baptized in their commitments, and the fight for peace and respect for the dignity of the human person. During the campaign, signatures have been collected, “to join efforts and show that Colombia is a country of faith and hope, that believes in the Holy Rosary,” said Gloria Gonzalez, national coordinator of the Campaign. On the occasion of the pilgrimage, Fr. Miguel Patiño Hormassa, National Director of the Campaign, made a special call to all the faithful interested in this event and encouraged them to continue praying the Rosary together, for peace. The National Campaign began two year ago, on October 7, 2006, with the goal of having 1 million Colombians who would pray to Rosary every day for peace in Colombia and the liberation of the captives. The organizers have a list of people committed in the effort, from 130 cities, thanks to the great collaboration made by many citizens, “convinced that without the help of God and the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of us all, it is impossible to bring peace to our hearts, to forgive and to reach reconciliation and peaceful coexistence in our Land.” The list was presented to Our Lady of Chiquinquira during the pilgrimage, to thank her and ratify their commitment as peacemakers. “We are convinced of the power of God, which is above all mercy, because His only desire is to love us and save us. Thus, we are convinced of the power of prayer,” the organizers said in their message sent directly to the FARC. The Campaign has received support from the Latin American Bishops' Council (CELAM), which has contributed to spreading awareness and support, as well as in the meetings with various associations that promote the Holy Rosary, so as to unite forces in the same goal: peace. (RG) (Agenzia Fides 21/11/2008)
