Joint Session of the Central Government and the Latin American Region (CIAL)
21-28 August 2023
Day 4 – Thursday, August 24
Today was a day of pilgrimage to the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe. At 7:30 a.m., we began our journey aboard two buses.
Along the way, we prayed the rosary and reflected on the disciples’ story on the road to Emmaus. After about 3 hours, we arrived at our destination. We spent a short time visiting the Tepeyac and surrounding areas of the basilica.
At 11 a.m., we gathered at a meeting place about 1 km from the basilica. Other Oblates from the Mexican Province joined us, some from Guatemala, and more than 100 associates. Together, we processed to the basilica, singing and praying.
At noon, we celebrated Mass at the main altar of the basilica. The Superior General, Fr. Luis Ignacio Rois Alonso, OMI, presided over the Mass and preached the homily. Around 70 Oblate priests concelebrated. The celebration of the Eucharist and the pilgrimage also marked the closing of the year-long celebration of the 80th anniversary of the founding of the Mexican Province.
After Mass, we gathered with our associates for a festive meal and time of fraternity. There was an overwhelming sense of joy and festivity.
