To mark the feast of Saint Anthony Mary Claret, patron saint of the Altavista neighborhood, residents and visitors gathered on Friday afternoon in the parish church to pay tribute to their Patron Saint. At 6:00 p.m., the celebration of the Eucharist began, presided over by D. Juan Carlos Medina, parish priest of San Ginés, and concelebrated by the parish priest of Altavista, D. Clemente López.
The liturgical chants, performed by the Musical Group "Alborada Peña del Lentisco", under the direction of Professor José Cruz, accompanied the mass with a solemn and joyful tone that encouraged all those present, who joined the melodies with fervor.
During the homily, the celebrating priest recalled the life and work of Saint Anthony Mary Claret, born in Barcelona in 1807 into a family of wool manufacturers. After working as a weaver, a profound vocation led him to the priesthood in 1835. His missionary spirit led him to travel through Catalonia and the Canary Islands, visiting Lanzarote, where he was received with affection for his humility and his evangelizing passion.
After the Eucharist, the procession began with the image of Saint Anthony Mary Claret, recently restored. The statue was carried with devotion, accompanied by the celebrating priests, municipal authorities, and a multitude of faithful who walked through some of the streets of the neighborhood singing religious songs. The route was coordinated by members of Civil Protection and the Local Police of Arrecife, under the direction of Kevin Cortés, Councilor for Security and Emergencies of the Arrecife City Council.
Upon its return to the temple, the image of Saint Anthony Mary Claret was received with cheers and applause, a symbol of the faith and affection of a people that keeps traditions alive.
The day concluded with an act of fellowship, in which attendees shared homemade pastries carefully prepared by the parishioners themselves. A gesture that, as every year, reflects the community spirit and hospitality that characterizes the residents of Altavista.
Thus passed a heartwarming afternoon full of faith, in which the neighborhood came together to honor its Patron Saint, renewing the bonds of devotion and friendship that strengthen this community.
