Pilgrim Image of Our Lady of Nazaré visits the government headquarters and receives honors of a head of state
The celebration marks the faith and support of public management for the largest Catholic festival in Brazil
The image of the Patroness of the People of Pará, Our Lady of Nazaré, was received on this Thursday (9) with honors of a head of state, in a ceremony held at the Palácio dos Despachos, the headquarters of the state government. Governor Helder Barbalho expressed his gratitude and reverence for the moment. In his speech, he began by thanking for the graces received in the past year and highlighted the strength that devotion to Our Lady of Nazaré provides to the people of Pará.
“We are here to thank Our Lady of Nazaré for the graces received. We all face challenges, and it is in her that we find the strength to move forward,” he said. Helder emphasized the need for divine protection and enlightenment for the State, stating that the image represents not only faith but also hope for a better future. “I ask that she continues to protect us and open paths. May her light guide us in delivering a better State to our people,” the governor requested.
The head of the state executive also emphasized the importance of teamwork among public servants. “We are a team that plays together, and our unity is crucial for building a stronger Pará,” he stated.
In an emotional moment, Helder Barbalho mentioned his joy in being at the event for the seventh time as governor, highlighting the relevance of the tradition. “It is special to participate in this celebration that involves so many feelings and for my family to be here with me. Without Our Lady, we would not be able to achieve our goals,” he concluded, inviting everyone to come closer to the image.
During the celebration, Deacon Sílvio Vila Nova recalled biblical passages, highlighting Mary as the intercessor for all and mentioning Jesus' first miracle. This moment served to reinforce the central role of the maternal figure in the spiritual and social formation of citizens. At the end of the ceremony, the public was invited to reflect on the intercession of Our Lady in everyday life.
Investments - The visit of the pilgrim image also reminded of the state government's effort to execute actions for the development and promotion of the Nazarene season. For the 2025 procession, number 233, as announced by Governor Helder Barbalho during the Mandate Mass, R$ 2 million will be allocated to the Archdiocese of Belém, responsible for organizing the entire festivity.
Operation Círio - Another highlight of the state government is the work to ensure the safety of the events that make up the Círio de Nazaré. This year, more than 12,000 public agents will be mobilized to protect tourists and pilgrims who follow the largest religious manifestation in the country in all its dimensions. The actions began on Tuesday (6) and will continue until October 29.
A total of 28 events, including religious, artistic, and cultural, are scheduled to take place during the Nazarene season. There are 14 processions, nine masses related to the Círio, and five cultural artistic events, such as the Festa da Chiquita, the Arraial do Pavulagem parade, the Meeting of Drums, and the Auto do Círio.
