In a groundbreaking event that underscored the power of faith and unity, leaders from various religious backgrounds congregated to celebrate the canonization of Argentina’s first saint, Saint Mama Antula. This historic occasion not only marked a significant moment in Argentina’s religious history but also showcased the profound impact of interfaith dialogue and cooperation.
Gustavo Guillermé, president of the World Congress of Intercultural and Interreligious Dialogue “A Path to Peace,” led a delegation of distinguished figures from different faiths, highlighting the event’s emphasis on mutual respect and understanding among diverse religious communities. The ceremony, held with great hope and emotion, was attended by notable ecclesiastical authorities, including Archbishop Alberto Bochatey, executive secretary of the Argentine Episcopal Conference; Archbishop Garcia Cuerva of Buenos Aires; and Archbishop Vicente Bokalic of Santiago del Estero.
Representatives from other religions, such as Mr Iván Arjona Pelado, a representative of the Church of Scientology to the European Union and the United Nations, and Gustavo Libardi, president of the same church in Argentina, joined in the celebration. Miguel Steuermann, president of the Jewish-Muslim brotherhood and director of Radio Jai, also participated, reflecting the event’s inclusive spirit.
The canonization of Mama Antula is celebrated as a milestone that not only honors her legacy but also serves as a beacon of unity among leaders from various spiritual traditions. Her life, characterized by courage and integrity in advocating for religious freedom, serves as an inspiration and model for many.
The event was graced by the presence of high-level political figures, including Argentine President Javier Milei, demonstrating the national significance of this canonization. Other important attendees included Jorge Macri, Head of Government for the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires, and Dr. Gerardo Zamora, Governor of the Province of Santiago del Estero, among others, all of whom supported the canonization and its profound implications for the nation.
The ceremony’s live broadcast by Vatican News served as a powerful reminder of faith’s ability to bridge differences and unite individuals around common values and aspirations. The canonization of Argentina’s first saint is seen as a symbol of hope and a call to action for leaders and faithful of all religions to collaborate towards building a more just and compassionate world.
Jorge Bergoglio, now known as His Holiness Pope Francis, has been a pivotal figure in promoting interreligious dialogue and understanding for over two decades. His efforts, both as Cardinal of Buenos Aires and as Pope, have been instrumental in fostering peace, justice, and equality, emphasizing the importance of brotherhood and spirituality in creating a unified and socially just society.
Gustavo Guillermé expressed his honor and satisfaction in participating in this event, highlighting the teachings and example of Pope Francis as a source of inspiration for continuing to unite religious communities in the pursuit of peace, human dignity, and religious freedom.
The preparatory celebrations included a presentation of the Spanish book “Mama Antula, the life of a woman without limits,” featuring interviews with its authors, Cintia Suarez and Nunzia Locatelli. Their devotion and enthusiasm for attending the canonization ceremony underscored the event’s emotional and spiritual significance.
This historic canonization of Saint Mama Antula has not only added a new chapter to Argentina’s religious history but has also reinforced the importance of interfaith dialogue and the collective pursuit of peace and justice in today’s world.
