International Celebration and Blessing by Pope Francis
On October 18, the global family of the Schoenstatt Movement joyfully commemorates its 110th anniversary. This significant event culminated with the blessing given by Pope Francis to the International Schoenstatt Work, news that filled its members around the world with emotion and gratitude.
A Historic Moment
On Wednesday, October 16, during the general audience, a crown representing all the members of the Schoenstatt Movement was presented to Pope Francis. Three prominent members of the Movement, Monsignor Ignazio Sanna, Archbishop Emeritus of Oristano, Father Marcelo Cervi, rector of the International Schoenstatt Shrine in Belmonte, and Sister M. Julia Almeida, of the Institute of the Schoenstatt Sisters of Mary, requested the Holy Father’s blessing for this crown. This symbolic gesture paves the way for the international coronation of the Virgin Mary as “Queen Mother of the Church,” which will be celebrated during the Holy Year 2025.
Celebrations Around the World
Pilgrims from various nations gather at the Original Schoenstatt Shrine in Vallendar, Germany, to commemorate the Day of the Covenant of Love. Alexandre Awi Mello, president of the International Schoenstatt Presidency, said about this day: “We are celebrating 110 years of our Covenant of Love. The theme of this year’s international novena was to bring ‘Fire to our Church.’ We do not want to look back, but rather to project our charisma to the entire Church. May this fire that burns in our hearts continue to be present, continue to burn. We want to bring the fire of Father Kentenich, the fire that he left us from his mission and charisma, to the Church of today and tomorrow.”
Emotions in Front of the Pope
Sister M. Julia Almeida was moved to tears when she received the Pope’s blessing for the crown and for the entire Movement. “For me it was truly a very special moment, with a feeling of profound mercy. The Pope was in front of us, at our side, listening to us with a smile, joy and serenity. It is a moment that I will treasure in my heart forever.”
A Call to Fidelity and Love
Monsignor Ignazio Sanna motivated the entire Schoenstatt Family to renew their love for the Church and for the Pope, as successor of the apostles: “We want to remain faithful, under the protection of the Mother Thrice Admirable, to the evangelizing mission of building a new man and a civilization of love.”
A 110-Year Legacy
Schoenstatt, a Catholic movement born in Germany, has extended its influence to Christians on all continents. Their spirituality is based on the Covenant of Love with Mary, a consecration centered on living holiness in daily life with the Virgin Mary as educator. Just as Mary educated Jesus, Schoenstatt members wish to be formed by her as new images of Christ for today’s world.
For more information, visit: schoenstatt.com.
