In gratitude for the 80 years of the Congregation of Holy Cross's mission in Brazil, a heartfelt gathering took place, uniting collaborators, friends, priests, brothers, and sisters in a special celebration to honor this significant milestone. The first Holy Cross missionaries arrived from Canada to São Paulo to work in a new residential area for industrial workers named Jaguaré in December 1943.

The celebrations began Saturday, September 14, with a pilgrimage of the Holy Cross Family to the National Shrine of Our Lady of Aparecida, Patroness of Brazil, to pray for the mission of the Congregation. Almost 150 people participated, with two buses departing from São Paulo and one from Campinas.

Among those making the pilgrimage were Fr. Emmanuel Kallarackal, C.S.C., Vicar General and First Assistant, and Br. Bertrand Nee Wayoe, C.S.C., Fourth Assistant, representing the General Administration, and Fr. Alfredo Hernández, C.S.C., Superior of the District of Chile-Peru.

Read more about the History of Holy Cross in Brazil

The next day, September 15, on the Feast of Our Lady of Sorrows, Patroness of the Congregation, a Mass of Thanksgiving took place at the St. André Bessette Chapel at Notre Dame College in Campinas. The Most Rev. Eduardo dos Santos, Bishop of the Diocese of Ourinhos in São Paulo, presided, with priests from the District celebrating.

In addition to the Holy Cross religious, the assembly of worshippers included students, alumni, educators, and parishioners from Holy Cross’s schools, social projects, and parishes.

During the Mass, Br. Ronaldo Almeida, C.S.C., Superior, expressed gratitude and reflected on the Congregation’s 80-year legacy in Brazil.

“Over the past 80 years of missionary work in Brazil, we have built upon the inspiring legacy of the Congregation of Holy Cross, which continues to guide and renew our mission. Our educational, social, and parish initiatives have flourished, allowing us to embody the teachings of our founder, Basile Moreau, and our predecessor, Jacques Dujarié. We are dedicated to providing quality, holistic education, and formation rooted in Gospel values. Our efforts have significantly shaped generations of individuals devoted to justice and pursuing the common good,” he said.

Br. Almeida reviewed how the efforts of the Congregation in Brazil have been changing perspectives and touching lives, fostering connections, and making a significant difference through quality educational services, dedicated social work, and meaningful pastoral initiatives.

He concluded, “Let us remain united in our faith and brotherhood, deepening our connections and nurturing hope, always mindful of our ability to change lives and make a positive difference for those we encounter along our journey...Guided by the Holy Spirit's light, we look forward to the future, dedicating ourselves to the ongoing work we undertake, assured that it is a divine mission. Long live the Congregation of the Holy Cross!”