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All Set for Annual Pilgrimage to Shrine of Our Lady of Victories in Angola

Shrine of Our Lady of Victories in Massangano in Angola’s Catholic Diocese of Ndalatando. Credit: Radio Ecclesia

Preparations are complete for the annual pilgrimage to the Shrine of Our Lady of Victories in Massangano in Angola’s Catholic Diocese of Ndalatando, with liturgical, logistical, security, and health arrangements proceeding smoothly.

In a Wednesday, August 13 interview with ACI Africa, the spokesperson for the Order of Friars Minor Capuchin (OFM Cap), one of the organizers of the pilgrimage said the event scheduled for August 15–17 is expected to gather thousands of faithful from across the country.

“The liturgical rehearsals are going well, with care and dedication given to all elements of the liturgical service,” Fr. Firmino Caculo said.

He added, “The choirs from Calumbo, Dondo, and Massangano are well prepared under the coordination of the priest from the Diocese of Ndalatando. The acolytes and scouts have been well integrated.”

Detailing the liturgical program, Fr. Caculo said, “The Opening Mass will be presided over on August 15, at 6 p.m. by Friar Eurico Manuel Francisco, Provincial Superior of the Capuchin Friars Minor in Angola.”

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He said that after the Holy Mass celebration, there will be confessions, and “moments of listening.”

“The closing Mass will take place on August 17 at 9 a.m., presided over by the Bishop of Ndalatando, Almeida Kanda, with the blessing of religious objects, a fellowship lunch, and the return of pilgrims to their communities.”

The three-day event, co-organized by the OFM members in Angola and the Diocese of Ndalatando, is being held under the theme, “With Our Lady of Victory, let us be joyful and faithful disciples.” 

According to the Capuchin spokesperson, about 8,000 pilgrims are expected to participate in the pilgrimage, with notable participation from the Capuchin parishes of St. Anthony of Cuca and Our Lady of Fatima (São Domingos) in the Archdiocese of Luanda, as well as delegations from the Diocese of Ndalatando and other parts of Angola, including Samba Cajú, Dondo, N’Zage in the Diocese of Uíge.

Fr. Caculo said logistics are in place, including bathhouses, tents, potable water, accommodation for celebrants, and sanitary facilities. 

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He also assured that public security and health services are guaranteed, with police, firefighters, doctors, nurses, and health technicians available to assist pilgrims.

Reflecting on the significance of the event, Fr. Caculo said, “We live in difficult times. Life is a struggle, but every fighter longs for victory.”

“We invite everyone to the Shrine of Mama Vitória,” he said, and added, “Let us give thanks, bear witness, and ask for the graces we still need for ourselves, for our families, and for peace in Angola.”

João Vissesse is an Angolan Journalist with a passion and rich experience in Catholic Church Communication and Media Apostolate.