On August 15th, devotees of Padre Eustáquio will receive a replica of the image of Our Lady of the Abbey of Água Suja. The image was donated by the Sanctuary of Romaria-MG, the first parish of Padre Eustáquio in Brazil.

“Father Eustáquio’s connection with Our Lady of the Abbey dates back to 1925 when the Dutchman was assigned to the village of Água Suja, now the city of Romaria, in the Triângulo Mineiro region. He worked in the region for 10 years and was the builder of that Sanctuary,” emphasizes Father Vinícius Maciel, responsible for the Cause of Canonization of the Blessed.

The image will be enthroned during the 6 PM mass, which will also include a procession through the neighborhood streets. These activities are part of the celebrations marking the 100th anniversary of Father Eustáquio's priestly ordination, which took place this August.

“Throughout the month we will have special programming, especially on the 30th, when we celebrate Father Eustáquio's Day,” highlights Father Vinícius. Between the 21st and 29th, caravans from other parishes and even other cities will visit the Sanctuary for the Novena meditation.

On August 30th, there will be masses throughout the day and food stalls. It is estimated that 25,000 people will visit Padre Eustáquio's church that day.