Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Guayaquil (Agenzia Fides) – With slogans and posters, they hit the streets to express their celebration of World Mission Sunday. "The children of the world are always friends," "Long live Christ, who lives" were, among many others, the phrases heard during the march carried out with the participation of children, youth, religious, and parents of the Holy Childhood Association in six provinces.
The march is part of the closing events of the first conference of the Holy Childhood Association for the Coastal Zone, which lasted three days and was organized by the Archdiocese of Guayaquil and the Pontifical Mission Societies.
"I am very happy when I help others," said Danny Arevalo, a 9-year-old boy wearing a backpack and walking with an orange balloon in hand. He was part of the delegation of El Triunfo present at the event. Also present was the Diocese of Yaguachi with 130 children ages 7 to 12.
Archbishop Antonio Arregui, Archbishop of Guayaquil, and Father Ricardo Lazo from the PMS were at the head of the march, which was attended by about 1,500 people.
The delegations from Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas, Manabi, Los Rios, Guayas, Esmeraldas, El Oro for two hours participated with Christian dances and songs that have led to further reflection. "We leave filled with joy, renewed in our faith and with hope in our people," said Sister Loly Lucena, of the Diocese of Manta.
Josué and Teresa Vera, both age 6, wore a sign reading: "Respect our rights." They were accompanied by five other children and their parents from the Parish of Our Lady of the Rosary of Pompeii, in the area of Fraga. Catechist Milagros Vera said that the children reflected on the meaning of the missions and how they can help them by faith.
The march through the city streets ended at the North Naval Base, where an outdoor Mass was celebrated. "It's the most important part of the celebration that Christ has called us," said Caicedo Estela, coordinator of the Holy Childhood Association in the Vicariate of Esmeraldas. (CE) (Agenzia Fides 10/26/2010)
