On June 22, 2024, at 10:00 a.m., the Provincial Custody of the Immaculate Conception of the B.V.M. in Brazil celebrated a Mass to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the death of Friar Martin Maria de Porres WARD, OFM Conv. The Provincial Custos, Friar Carlos Roberto de Oliveira CHARLES, presided over the Mass, which took place in the chapel of the São Francisco de Assis Seminary, next to the Perfeita Alegria Hermitage in Andrelândia, Brazil.
The Mass commemorating Friar Martin was enlivened by the presence of the friars of the Custody, the faithful and the Pastor of the church in Andrelândia, Father Domingos SÁVIO DA SILVA.
In his homily, Friar Carlos Roberto stressed who Friar Martin was, his missionary identity and his youth. For many of the faithful, Friar Martin’s simplicity and joy were a sign of God’s presence.
Before the final blessing, those assembled took part in a procession from the chapel of the São Francisco de Assis Seminary to Friar Martin’s tomb, where they prayed and thanked God for this friar and his witness of life among God’s people. Finally, the Custos thanked everyone for attending and, together with the other concelebrants, raised his hands to impart his blessing upon the faithful.
Friar Willian Gomes MENDONÇA, Custodial Secretary
