On the festival of the Patroness of the Canary Islands, the Villa Mariana de Candelaria saw a large turnout of pilgrims and visitors, all displaying their devotion to La Morenita. The weather was delightful, with a sunny atmosphere and a refreshing breeze, adding to the festive spirit.
The day commenced with early masses at 8:00 and 10:00, followed by a civic procession and the transfer of the Villa’s banner, in which civil and military dignitaries took part. After reaching the Basilica, the mayor of Candelaria, Mari Brito, presented the town’s banner to the lieutenant general chief of the Canary Islands Command, Julio Salom, who then passed it on to the rector of the Basilica, Juan Manuel Martínez Corral, in accordance with the protocol.
During the mass, sung by the Orfeón La Paz of La Laguna and presided over by Bishop Bernardo Álvarez, the Bishop utilized a song by Simon and Garfunkel to convey a message about God’s role as a bridge to help people overcome challenges. Bishop Bernardo Álvarez highlighted the significance of being a guiding light in the world, sacrificing for others, including immigrants seeking better conditions for their families and the terminally ill, as urged by Pope Francis in a recent message.
Illuminating the World
The homily also stressed the importance of praying for peace in the world, acknowledging the various ongoing conflicts globally. The mass concluded with a moving performance of the Hymn to the Virgin by the Orfeón La Paz de La Laguna.
The procession around the Plaza de la Patrona de Canarias, with the image of the Virgin of Candelaria adorned in a salmon-colored cloak, was accompanied by interpretations of the anthems of Spain and the Canary Islands. The procession saw the presence of various dignitaries, including the mayor of Candelaria, the chief general of the Canary Islands Command, the president of the Cabildo, and other notable figures. Additionally, there were deputies, senators, Canarian parliamentarians, and municipal representatives from several municipalities in attendance.
The day’s events continued with the offering of drumbeats and the presentation of respects to the virgin by the Tafuriaste Cultural Association, followed by the Holy Rosary. The festivities concluded with a special Eucharist featuring the presentation of infants born in the past year at the feet of La Morenita.
The celebrations will continue with the liturgical festival of San Blas. The day will culminate with a special recital by the singer Cristina Ramos titled “The Concert of the Candles” in the Plaza de la Fuente de los Peregrinos.
