Devotion to Father Eustáquio reflected in commerce.

Devotion to Father Eustáquio reflected in commerce.

Anyone walking through the streets of the Padre Eustáquio neighborhood in Belo Horizonte has probably noticed the number of businesses named in honor of the Blessed One. They span various sectors, from bakeries and dental offices to food stores, distributors, and clothing stores. Many owners hold stories related to the Blessed One.

As is the case with Padre Eustáquio Bakery, in front of the Health and Peace Sanctuary. When the building was being constructed, the Blessed One is said to have passed by the construction site and asked what would operate there. When he received the answer that it would be a bakery, he is said to have remarked: ”"Bread is a blessed food.".

“Health and Peace,” the greeting that became known as Father Eustáquio's trademark, is also among the names of businesses that honor the Dutch priest, such as the dental offices located near the church: “Health and Peace – Dental Clinics.”.

Father Eustáquio arrived in Belo Horizonte in 1942 after being exiled for attracting attention, as he was highly sought after by the faithful in Poá/SP. The fame of holiness of the "Vicar of Poá" spread, becoming uncontrollable. It was a public health and safety problem at the time. The religious figure stayed only a year and a half in the capital of Minas Gerais and profoundly left his mark on the places he passed through.