In a moment of great anticipation for the Church in Brazil, Archbishop-elect Mário Antônio da Silva, recently appointed to lead the Archdiocese of Aparecida (SP), held a press conference last Saturday, the 2nd, in the Fishermen's Hall of the National Sanctuary. The conversation with journalists revealed a pastor committed to the mission of evangelization and deeply connected to popular Marian devotion. Before officially taking office, Archbishop Mário shared his inspirations and plans for this new chapter, emphasizing that Christian witness is never static—it propels the journey forward.
Appointed by Pope Leo XIV on March 2, Archbishop Mário succeeds Archbishop Orlando Brandes, who led the archdiocese since 2017 and whose resignation was accepted by the Holy Father. The transition occurs in a context of renewal and continuity, where the faith of the Brazilian people meets pastoral leadership.
“The media are bearers and messengers of truth and the beatitudes,” said Archbishop Mário. “Communication should not be aimed only at the head or the intellect: let what you transmit touch the heart.”
The Call to Evangelization and the Role of Communication
During the press conference, Archbishop Mário emphasized the importance of communication in the Church's mission. He greeted the journalists present and stressed that the press are essential channels for bringing the Gospel to the world. “Communication is not just information; it is an act of love that draws people closer to Jesus,” he said. For him, true Christian communication must be incarnate, reaching not only the mind but the heart of the listener.
The new archbishop also highlighted that evangelization cannot be static. “Those who bear witness do not stand still but move forward,” he declared, echoing the biblical passage from Isaiah 52:7: “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!” This dynamic vision of faith is central to his ministry, which seeks to transform the Church into a missionary community on the move.
Devotion to Our Lady as a Foundation
Archbishop Mário did not hide his affection for Marian devotion, so present in Brazilian culture. He recalled that Aparecida is a symbol of welcome and hope for millions of faithful. “Our Lady of Aparecida teaches us that the simple faith of the people is a powerful path to God,” he said. The archdiocese, which houses the largest Marian sanctuary in the world, counts popular piety as one of its greatest treasures.
The archbishop cited the Gospel of Luke 1:46-47, where Mary proclaims: “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.” For him, this joy should permeate the entire Church, especially in times of challenge. “Mary shows us that humility and trust in God are the foundation of a life of witness,” he added.
Challenges and Hopes for the Archdiocese
Asked about the challenges of his new mission, Archbishop Mário pointed to the need to strengthen family ministry and lay formation. He acknowledged that contemporary society faces many crises, but sees in the Church a response of hope. “The Church cannot close in on itself; it must go out to meet people, especially the poor and marginalized,” he said.
The archbishop also spoke about the importance of youth. Inspired by the passage from 1 Timothy 4:12 – “Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers” – he plans to create spaces for listening and leadership for young people. “They are not the future of the Church; they are the present,” he said with enthusiasm.
Unity and Ecumenism
As the leader of an archdiocese that receives pilgrims from all over Brazil and the world, Archbishop Mário highlighted the importance of ecumenism. He recalled that EncuentraIglesias.com is a platform that promotes unity among Christians, and that diversity of traditions is a richness. “We are not alone; we are one great family of faith,” he said, citing John 17:21: “That they may all be one.”
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