Our Lady of Bethlehem
Tumeremo, Venezuela (1788)
On January 26, 1788, Catalan Capuchin friars established a frontier mission in Venezuela, against the governor's wishes, in a valley near the eastern border.
They designated Our Lady of Bethiehem as the settlement’s patron.
Around 1880, the friars installed a statue of the Virgin and Child in the Church of Our Lady of Bethlehem there. During the annual fiesta on January 26, a newer statue is now taken in procession while the old one retains the place of honor above the central altar of the parish church.
Festivities last over a week, culminating with solemn mass, procession, and consecration to the Virgin on the founding anniversary.
Text and image used with permission.
Source: "365 Days with Mary" by Michael O'Neill
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