More than 7,000 young people arrived in Caacupé this weekend for the
great feast of Our Lady of Caacupé, to the shrine dedicated to her. The celebrations, which begin today and extend throughout the week, have always been well attended by the faithful who come from all over the country.
The theme chosen by the diocese for the celebrations this year, which will also kick off the three years dedicated to youth, is "Embrace Christ Jesus".
The Bishop of Caacupé, His Exc. Mgr. Catalino Claudio Giménez Medina, said that the feast this year will focus on issues affecting young people, because only with their involvement one can find solutions to current problems.
In this regard, he reiterated that "for the Church, young people are the most important active elements to allow a change in our Country".
This year we add a special meaning to the feast, because the Diocese of Caacupé celebrates the 50th anniversary of its creation. That is why, amongst other initiatives, for the first time there will be the prayer of the bilingual Rosary and the parade of lanterns.
While the traditional procession with the image of the Madonna, which is more than 300 years old has been suspended, which will only be exposed for the veneration of all.
Cardinal Luis Héctor Villalba, Archbishop Emeritus of Tucumán (Argentina), Special Envoy of the Holy Father, will preside at the concluding celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Diocese of Caacupé, to be held at the Sanctuary of Nuestra Señora de los Milagros, on December 8 .
Father Arnaldo Godoy, rector of the Basilica, hopes that the feast is a great opportunity to find peace and put an end to insecurity and violence that plagues the country.