Testimony of faith and fraternity in the journey of the Gospel in the Archdiocese of Portoviejo.
Quito, April 14, 2024
Editor: María José Casco
From March 27 to April 14, the Gospel Book, the representative symbol of the 53rd International Eucharistic Congress (IEC 2024), completed its journey through the 11 pastoral areas of the Archdiocese of Portoviejo. The tour included the parishes Nuestra Madre de la Merced, Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, La Dolorosa, Nuestra Madre de Monserrate, La Inmaculada, El Carmen.
The Gospel was received with fervor and devotion by the faithful and pastoral agents, who gathered to receive the Word of God with open arms. This sacred symbol was welcomed with joy and solemnity, strengthening the ties of brotherhood and solidarity in the region.
In each sector, various cultural events such as traditional dances and moments of prayer were carried out, which enriched the spiritual experience of those present. The presence of the Gospel inspired manifestations of faith and reflected the identity of the province of Manabi.
Joel Aray, communicator of the Archdiocese of Portoviejo, shared his personal perspective on the arrival of the Gospel and highlighted its importance as a symbol of healing and spiritual renewal in times of adversity. For Aray, this sacred text represents the union between the Word of God and the Eucharistic celebration. “His presence will continue to illuminate the path of all those who seek the truth and love of God in their lives,” he indicated.
For Veimer García, pastoral agent, the “Gospel invites us to bring the good news of the Gospel according to the teachings of Jesus. As laymen and priests, they bring this message to those most in need in times of inequality and poverty, uniting our church as brothers to grow spiritually and communally.”
The solemn closing mass was held at the La Merced Archdiocesan Sanctuary, in Portoviejo, presided over by Father Patricio González, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Portoviejo. At the celebration, the visit of the Gospel Book was appreciated and the commitment to fraternity and spiritual healing was reaffirmed.
