Last Thursday at 6:00 p.m., the Catholic community of the Altavista neighborhood, in Arrecife, experienced an endearing, historic, and deeply emotional day on the occasion of the presentation of the restored image of their Patron Saint, San Antonio María Claret. The event brought together neighbors, parishioners, and representatives of various entities, in an act full of emotion, gratitude, and shared faith.
The ceremony began with a speech by the young restorer Roberto Fernández Perdomo, a graduate in Fine Arts and specialist in new technologies applied to the dissemination of heritage. Roberto, a native of Altavista, explained in detail and with passion the work carried out on the image, accompanying his presentation with a careful photographic report that allowed the public to appreciate the meticulousness and respect with which this carving, so dear to all, was treated. His speech not only revealed the technical process, but also conveyed a great sensitivity, making the attendees value even more the symbolic and spiritual dimension of this restoration.
Next, Mari Carmen Santacruz took the floor, president of the "Padre Claret" Neighborhood Association of Altavista, known for her tireless work in favor of the neighborhood and her commitment to the parish. Her words, full of emotion and pride, reflected the collective feeling of a community that, beyond the act itself, was celebrating the recovery of a symbol of identity and hope.
The round of speeches concluded with an emotional address by the parish priest, Don Clemente López, who, visibly moved, directed heartfelt words to those present. He spoke about the figure of Saint Anthony Mary Claret, his evangelizing mission, his special bond with Lanzarote, an island he visited as an apostolic missionary in the years 1848 and 1849. In those times, he preached in churches and squares, revitalizing the faith in places like Arrecife and Teguise. In his speech, Don Clemente also recalled that Claret was assigned to the Canary Islands after facing difficulties in evangelizing in his native Catalonia, finding here fertile ground to sow the Gospel.
The day also served to give special thanks to the Torres Santacruz family, residents of Altavista, who generously assumed the costs of the restoration. Thanks to their gesture, the image of San Antonio María Claret has regained the dignity, splendor, and beauty it deserves, returning to the community not only a restored work of art, but also a revitalized spiritual reference.
The celebration concluded with the Eucharist, presided over by Don Clemente López, in an atmosphere of reflection, joy, and gratitude, marking the beginning of a new stage for the parish life of Altavista.
It has been more than fifty years since this image arrived in the neighborhood. Since then, it has been much more than a religious figure; it is a symbol of faith, tradition, and unity. Present in processions, patron saint festivities, prayers, and shared moments of hope. San Antonio María Claret continues to be a beacon and guide for all the residents of Altavista.