New Archbishop of Aparecida: 'Without Christ, Effort Is Empty; With Him, Fruit Abounds'

Dom Mário was appointed by Pope Leo XIV, successor to the late Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21, 2025. This transition occurs in a context of renewal and hope for the Church in Brazil, which continues to seek paths of evangelization and service to God's people.

The ceremony began with the welcome of the new archbishop by Archbishop Emeritus Orlando Brandes, Apostolic Nuncio to Brazil Archbishop Giambattista Diquattro, and the rector of the National Shrine, Father Eduardo Catalfo. Then, the decree of appointment was read, and Dom Mário made his profession of faith, committing to shepherd the flock entrusted to him.

The Homily: Bearing Fruit in Christ

During the homily, Dom Mário inspired those present with a message centered on the need to remain in Christ to produce lasting fruit. He declared: "Without Christ, there is effort, but with Christ, there is fruitfulness." The phrase resonated among the faithful as a call to trust in the Lord amid the challenges of the Christian life.

The archbishop based his reflection on the Gospel of John, chapter 15, where Jesus presents himself as the true vine and the disciples as the branches. He emphasized that, just as the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, the Christian cannot accomplish anything of eternal value without being united to Christ. "It is in union with Him that we find the strength to overcome difficulties and the joy of serving our neighbor," he said.

"I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing." (John 15:5, NIV)

Dom Mário also reminded the faithful of the importance of prayer and God's Word as means to cultivate this union with Christ. He urged them not to be carried away by empty activism, but to seek genuine intimacy with the Lord, who is the source of all spiritual fruitfulness.

The Archbishop's Role in the Church of Aparecida

The Archdiocese of Aparecida is one of the most important in Brazil, not only for its geographical size but for housing the National Shrine of Our Lady of Aparecida, one of the largest pilgrimage centers in the world. The new archbishop takes on the mission of guiding the local flock, promoting evangelization, and strengthening communion among the various charisms and ecclesial movements.

Dom Mário, who previously served as bishop in another diocese, brings extensive pastoral experience. He is known for his work with families, youth, and the poor, always with a welcoming and accessible approach. In his first words as archbishop, he emphasized the need for a Church that goes forth, meeting people where they are, especially in existential peripheries.

"The Church cannot be a closed fortress, but a mother with open arms, ready to welcome and care for everyone, especially those who suffer most," said Dom Mário, echoing the missionary spirit of Pope Francis.

Challenges and Hopes for the New Pastorate

Among the challenges awaiting the new archbishop are the need to revitalize catechesis, strengthen the Church's presence in rural and urban communities, and promote greater lay participation in the life of the Church. Additionally, the Archdiocese of Aparecida faces complex social issues such as inequality and violence, which require a concrete evangelical response.

However, there are also great hopes. The vibrant faith of the people of Aparecida, the Marian tradition, and the witness of so many Brazilian saints and martyrs are a source of inspiration. Dom Mário trusts that, with the guidance of the Holy Spirit and the intercession of Our Lady of Aparecida, he will lead his flock along paths of holiness and service.

Concluding the homily, the new archbishop invited everyone to renew their commitment to Christ, the true vine, so that the Church in Aparecida may continue to be a sign of hope and love for the world. "May our lives be a song of praise to God, and may our fruits be abundant for the glory of his name," he concluded.