Virtual Tour of the Largest Marian shrine in the World available, ahead of Pope's visit to Brazil

Virtual Tour of the Largest Marian shrine in the World available, ahead of Pope's visit to Brazil

Virtual Tour of the Largest Marian shrine in the World available, ahead of Pope's visit to Brazil

2013-07-16 19:38:49 
 

July 16, 2013. (Romereports.com) In a matter of days, Pope Francis will make his first international trip as the head of the Catholic Church. His schedule in Brazil, will include a quick visit to the largest Marian shrine in the world, the National Sanctuary of Our Lady of Aparecida in Brazil.

The immense complex has been the home of Brazil’s patroness for centuries. Located between the cities of Sao Paolo and Rio de Janeiro, a visit to the Shrine is also available online.
 

 

The sanctuary’s website,  www.a12.com  allows visitors to check out video and photos, as well as a 360 degree “virtual pilgrimage” of the large complex.

 

The tour starts off at the new Basilica, which ranks second in size to St. Peter’s Basilica. With the sounds of a choir in the background, users can choose from seven points throughout the building. They include a few of the chapels on the wings of the church, dedicated to Jesus Christ, as well as St. Joseph.

 

However, the main draw is the small statue of Our Lady of Aparecida, which is perched at the head of the Basilica, surrounded by the Chapel of the Apostles. According to tradition, fishermen came across the statue on the sea. Soon after, locals began venerating it. Aparecida, eventually became the Patroness of Brazil. The image, which resembles the Immaculate Conception, differs in that it became the first Marian apparition with dark skin.But the pilgrimage would not be complete without visitng the old Basilica. For nearly 200 years, it housed the statue of Our Lady of Aparecida, until the new one was completed more than 30 years ago. The old Basilica, which is much smaller in size, was build in barroque style, and is much more ornate than the new one.

Rome Reports: 23rd International Mariology Congress

http://www.romereports.com/palio/23rd-international-marian-congress-from-apparitions-to-the-second-vatican-council-english-7636.html

 

23rd International Marian Congress: From Apparitions, to the Second Vatican Council

2012-09-08 12:00:00 Printable version

 

September 8, 2012. (Romereports.com) When it comes to theology, what can Mary, the Mother of God, teach Catholics? Every four years the Marian Mariological Congress takes place, so that experts can discuss this and more. Everything from research to theories and the future of Mariology.

FR. VICENZO BATTAGLIA

Pontifical Marian International Academy

“Students and experts in Mariology from all over the world attend this Congress. Everyone from researchers to authors.”

This year, about 350 people gathered in Rome for the conference. The theme revolved around the impact the Second Vatican Council had on Mariology. Included in that, was its global reach.

ANTONIO ESCUDERO

Pontifical Salesian University

“Theology is not jut European, or American or African. It includes manifestations that are very rich. This pluralism is truly a strength in Christianity.”

When it comes to universal appeal and intrigue, apparitions have a special place. Especially the process of verifying whether an apparition is authentic. Professor Escudero says in the last few centuries, reports of apparitions have seen a high increase.

ANTONIO ESCUDERO

Pontifical Salesian University

“It's a process that takes quite a bit of time, which I think is a good thing. It's something that deserves much time and effort. It's also about studying an apparition thoroughly to make sure that it's not something that's done in a hurry. Apparitions are of key significance for the Church.”

In this sense, Our Lady, is a great source for bringing forth the New Evangelization-and Marians know this quite well.

FR. VICENZO BATTAGLIA

Pontifical Marian International Academy

“Through our Mariological studies, we want to contribute to the faith of the Church and the Word of the Gospel.”

To closing of the international congress includes an audience with Benedict XVI at his summer residence of Castel Gandolfo.