Missionaries from the Shalom Catholic Community arrived in Perpignan, France, in early December 2021 for the founding of a new mission in the city. After a long wait, due to the suspension of the issuance of visas due to the new coronavirus pandemic, the missionaries are now beginning a process of inculturation and language learning in the bishopric, in Parc Ducup.
A few days after the end of the year dedicated to Saint Joseph, on December 18, the Mass was celebrated that began the foundation of the mission in the diocese of Perpignan (France), the fourth French city to welcome the missionary presence of the Community, which has been in these lands for 18 years.
In addition to all the joy that the arrival of the missionaries brings, the foundation of the Perpignan mission was special for the entire Community due to the fact that the animation of the Sanctuary of Saint Joseph was entrusted to it. The spirituality of the Community is marked by devotion to the Patron of the Universal Church, and it is to him that one entrusts the search to correspond to the vocation and to also be an instrument of Divine Providence for the world. Starting in March of next year, Alane Raquel, Lucas Noronha, Amanda Pinheiro (Local Responsible), Amanda Barreira and Fabiano dos Anjos will be responsible for the animation of a sanctuary dedicated to Saint Joseph that will be inaugurated in the city. “We are going to manage a sanctuary of Saint Joseph in the central region of Perpignan, with an evangelization work open to all pilgrims, but also to the local population. The sanctuary will be inaugurated on March 19, 2022, with a Mass presided over by the local bishop, Norbert Turini”, explains the Local Responsible, Amanda Pinheiro.
“We are being very well received by the diocese, thank God. Knowing the place little by little we see that there is a people in need of God, but also of shepherding, of healing and of a coherent witness of evangelical life. We want to be God’s response for those beloved people”, says the Local Responsible.
A piece of Spain in France
Perpignan is a city that is located on the border between France and Spain. Close to the Mediterranean Sea, Perpignan has an old part with alleys and palm trees. The city has a strong Catalan brand and was recognized in 2008 as Capital of Catalan Culture. Since 2010 the local authorities have recognized Catalan as an official language, after French.