In the Cathedral of Our Lady of Carmen, in Maturín, they celebrated their patron saint

The Cathedral was filled with light to honor the Virgin of Carmen / Photo: Oriana García Rivas

The feast of the Virgin of Carmen, celebrated every July 16, was the opportune occasion for the parishioners of the Cathedral of Our Lady of Carmen, in Maturín, to pay homage to their patron saint.

With songs, prayers and much joy, Catholics participated in the various activities promoted by the parish to commemorate this Marian devotion.

The day began with the Holy Rosary at 8:00 in the morning, 12:00 noon and 4:00 in the followingnoon. The solemn mass, presided over by Monsignor Enrique Pérez Lavado, Bishop of Maturín, was scheduled for 5:00 in the followingnoon and, at the end, at 6:00 in the followingnoon, the procession with the image of the Virgin left.

“We always come to thank the Virgin of Carmen and to honor her because she never leaves us alone,” said Mélida Rodríguez, a resident of Raúl Leoni Avenue.

The procession took place along the streets surrounding the temple, and believers showed excitement and euphoria for the festivity.

“Wonderful. The Bishop blessed all those who placed the scapular of the Virgin of Carmen on him. Happy birthday was sung and the cake was beautiful,” said Elismenia Blanco, who attended the commemorative events with her family.

Saint Mary of Mount Carmel

Officially known as Saint Mary of Mount Carmel, she is considered the patron saint of armies, drivers and the sea.

It is venerated in several cities of Venezuela and internationally in several countries of the American and European continents.

Maturin / Oriana Garcia Rivas