Villarrica dressed up this January 12 to celebrate the centenary of the birth of María Felicia de Jesús Sacramentado, better known as Chiquitunga. The Guaireño parishioners joined together on a day of deep spirituality, marked by gratitude and hope, when commemorating the life of the first Paraguayan blessed, who dedicated herself to the service of others and love for God.
The celebration of the centenary of the birth of Chiquitunga It was not only a religious event, but also a moment of reflection and spiritual renewal for thousands of Paraguayans. In Villarrica, the land where she was born, the figure of María Felicia Guggiari Echeverría continues to be a symbol of faith, love and dedication to the service of others. Her life, marked by simplicity and commitment to Christian values, continues to be a source of inspiration for those who seek in her an example of holiness in daily life.
The central event was an emotional mass of thanksgiving, celebrated in the Villarrica cathedralwhere authorities and hundreds of faithful gathered since this afternoon. The ceremony was attended by bishops, priests and religious from different dioceses of the country, as well as delegations of devotees who arrived from other departments.. The Pilgrim Relic of Chiquitunga, a symbol of its spiritual presence, was placed in a place of honor during the Eucharist, allowing attendees to come and venerate it.
The Apostolic Nuncio to Paraguay, Monsignor Vincenzo Turturrowho presided over the mass, highlighted the importance of Chiquitunga’s legacy, remembering his example of love, humility and unbreakable faith. “From her birth María Felicia was a luminous and loving presence of God’s mercy, in every moment of her life she wanted to seek love to offer it to the Lord. This is a powerful invitation, especially for the young people of our country,” he expressed.
Read more: ‘Chiquitunga’: on his centenary, cardinal asks Paraguayans to pray for the canonization of his blessed
Faith and gratitude activities
The celebration was not limited to the mass. Throughout the week, Villarrica was the scene of activities that remembered the life and work of Chiquitunga. Service visits and conferences about her legacy allowed the faithful to learn more about the blessed. In addition, groups of young people carried out solidarity activities in his honor, such as visits to the city’s Regional Hospital and the Nursing Home, bringing a message of hope inspired by his example.
On Saturday, a procession passed through the main streets of the city, led by the Pilgrim Relic. The faithful, carrying candles and singing hymns, accompanied the image on a journey that symbolized the light and love that Chiquitunga radiated during his life. The day concluded with a concert of sacred music in the central square, where local artists paid tribute to the blessed through songs dedicated to her memory, awaiting the arrival of the centenary.
Read more: Villarrica honors his illustrious daughter, Blessed Chiquitunga
The legacy of Chiquitunga
Born on January 12, 1925 in Villarrica, María Felicia Guggiari Echeverría grew up in a deeply religious family. From an early age, he stood out for his sensitivity towards those most in need, dedicating his youth to the activities of Catholic Action, where he worked tirelessly for young people and the poor.
In 1955, she made the decision to consecrate her life to God and entered the Discalced Carmel in Asunción, adopting the name María Felicia de Jesús Sacramentado.. During her life in the convent, she was noted for her joy, humility and deep devotion to the Eucharist.
His life, although brief, left a lasting impact. He died on April 28, 1959 at the age of 34, leaving a testimony of unconditional love for God and neighbor. In 2018, she was beatified by Pope Francis, in an act that filled the entire Paraguayan nation with joy.
