Lima, Peru, Aug 27, 2007 / 08:51 am
On August 30, at noon local time, Peruvians will consecrate their country to the Virgin Mary during the closing of the National Eucharistic Congress presided over by Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, in front of the Cathedral of Chimbote in northern Peru.
The official consecration prayer, which makes specific reference to the devastation that Peru is experiencing from the earthquake that left 500 dead and more than 100,000 homeless, has been disseminated by the Apostolate for the Family Rosary.
“Today, Mary, the eyes of the brothers and sisters of Jesus, who is only Son of the Eternal Father, and of you, ever Virgin, turn to you. In this hour of grace and blessing for Peru, we desire to reaffirm our faith in Christ, the Way, the Truth and the Life, whose Word we wish to receive in our hearts as you received it, being renewed by the Eucharist.
Today we wish to entrust to you the future that awaits us, and we implore you to accompany us in our commitment,” the prayer begins.
“Holy Mary,” it continues, “we know the road is arduous; this glorious land, the birthplace of saints, is now afflicted by violence and death, by poverty and injustice. Mother of the Church, enlighten the people of Peru along the paths of faith, hope and love! Help us to live the commitment of our consecration for the benefit of the entire Peruvian people, our coast, mountains and rain forest. Comfort the sad and the depressed, those who have no families, or loved ones or friends.”