The 53rd National Pilgrimage of the Vincentians to Aparecida gathers tens of thousands of pilgrims
From 29 to 31 March, the city of Aparecida (São Paulo, Brazil) hosted one of the most significant events of Vincentian spirituality: the National Pilgrimage of the Vincentians of Brazil. With the participation of over 40,000 members of the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul from all regions of Brazil, the pilgrimage offered an intense weekend of prayer, reflection, fellowship, and missionary commitment.
Under this year’s theme – “Vincentians: did you come to see me or did you come to visit me?” – participants were invited to reflect on the true meaning of their service, considering the authenticity of their commitment and the depth of their closeness to the poorest. The theme, inspired by the spirituality of encounter and the following of Christ on the margins, accompanied all activities throughout the gathering.
The pilgrimage began on Friday with a meditative walk along the Caminho do Rosário (Rosary Path), during which the Sorrowful Mysteries were prayed. The Vincentians organised this moment in a spirit of reverence, setting the spiritual tone for the entire weekend. Many participants, wearing T-shirts or masks bearing the faces of emblematic figures from Vincentian history – including the seven founders of the Vincentian Family – expressed their devotion creatively.
Saturday was marked by the celebration of the Festa Reguladora, one of the central moments of the pilgrimage, lived with fervour and joy by thousands of people. This gathering combined hymns, testimonies, spirituality and a tangible sense of belonging. The event culminated on Sunday with Holy Mass and the emotional crowning of Our Lady of Aparecida, patroness of Brazil and a beloved figure in the country’s spiritual life.
The pilgrimage is both a cultural and communal event that, year after year, strengthens the identity of the Brazilian Vincentian community. From the traditional sorvetão de Itu – a must for many pilgrims – to the ascent of the Morro do Cruzeiro and the descent by cable car with breathtaking views, each detail reinforces the sense of shared joy and belonging that characterises this celebration.
Those who took part returned home with renewed hearts and strengthened commitment. The next edition is already scheduled: from 27 to 29 March 2026, Aparecida will once again be the home of a new wave of Vincentian faith and fraternity.
The International General Council extends its warmest congratulations to all our Brazilian brothers and sisters, and in particular to the National Council, represented by its President, Márcio da Silva. We also wish to express our sincere gratitude to Sebastião Ribeiro for his generous availability and for representing the IGP with dedication and Vincentian spirit at this important event.
