To begin the celebration, Alcimar Fioresi, superior of the community of Capelinha, presented the history of the Province and the missionary work done together with the laity. Marcus Vinicius, provincial secretary, read the apostolic blessing sent by Pope Benedict XVI. Before ending the celebration, Francisco Sevolani Botacin, father provincial of St. Rita, thanked everyone for their presence and the important cooperation of other provinces. Those present continued sharing their joy in a lunch offered in the parish hall. Television sets were present so that everyone would be able to see the Seleção Brasileira in the world cup.
Personalities
Pedro Luiz Stringhini, bishop of Franca presided the mass.Pedro Luiz Stringhini, bishop of Franca presided the mass. Recollect bishops were also present: José Luiz Azcona, of Marajó; Jesús María Cizaurre, of Cametá, and Jesús Moraza, of Lábrea (Amazon). We were glad to have João Carlos Borges, vicar of the Lapa Episcopal Region (Archdiocesis de São Paulo); Francisco Javier Jiménez, prior provincial of St. Nicholas of Tolentine; Norberto Escobar, provincial of Our Lady of Candelaria and other Augustinian Recollect friars of the provinces of St. Thomas of Villanova and St. Rita. The church was full with parish faithful and members of the Secular Fraternities of São Paulo, Ribeirão and Franca.
Building Repairs
Restoration and adaptation of the convento of Nossa Senhora Aparecida (Capelinha) are not finished yet. The facade is totally painted but the restoration work in the inside is still on the way. Library, chapel, kitchen, dining area, bedrooms and common halls are still being worked on. Hopefully all will be done and ready for the Provincial spiritual retreat in July.