(ZENIT News / Rio di Janeiro, 08.26.2024).- A new Eucharistic monument has risen in the heart of Rio de Janeiro, aiming to reinforce the presence of Catholicism in the city’s public spaces. Standing at an impressive 7.4 meters, this monumental sculpture not only commemorates the 70th anniversary of the 36th International Eucharistic Congress, held in Rio in 1955, but also serves as a tangible testament to the Catholic faith woven into the fabric of urban life.
The initiative was spearheaded by the Centro Dom Bosco (CDB), an organization dedicated to promoting Catholic values in Brazil. The entire project, from design to construction, was funded by the CDB and private donations, amounting to approximately 200,000 reais (around 32,500 euros). Notably, no public funds were used, highlighting the deep commitment of the Catholic community to this endeavor.
The monument was inaugurated in a ceremony filled with religious fervor, located strategically between Avenida Rio Branco and Avenida Presidente Wilson. The event, led by Father Lorenzo, featured a solemn mass, the blessing of the monument, and included prayers and hymns. The ceremony drew local authorities, Catholic institution representatives, and a large gathering of clergy, families, and devout followers.
The design of the monument, dedicated to the Blessed Sacrament and Jesus Christ, is both majestic and deeply devotional. The Centro Dom Bosco emphasized that the purpose of this work is not only to glorify the Eucharist but also to provide a space for prayer and reflection, strengthening the faith of Catholics in the city.
The CDB, known for its steadfast defense of traditional Church values in Brazilian society, has been at the forefront of several notable initiatives. Among their actions, a legal battle over the use of the term «Catholic» in contexts they deemed inappropriate sparked significant public debate, further establishing their role as defenders of the faith.
This new monument is a powerful addition to Rio’s spiritual landscape, symbolizing a renewed dedication to Catholicism in public life, while offering a place of quiet reflection amidst the city’s bustling environment.
Thank you for reading our content. If you would like to receive ZENIT’s daily e-mail news, you can subscribe for free through this link.
