Higüey. – The archbishop of Higüey, Monsignor Jesús Castro Marte, highlighted that the cult of the Virgen de la Altagracia and Marian devotion constitute one of the essential foundations of the historical, religious, and cultural formation of the Dominican people.
During his homily, the prelate affirmed that it is not possible to speak properly of the pillars that sustain the nation without recognizing the graces and wonders that God has dispensed to the country through the intercession of the Virgin Mary, whom he defined as Mother and Lady of the Dominicans.
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Castro Marte recalled what was expressed by the Dominican bishops in the Pastoral Letter of January 21, 2021, where it is pointed out that the Dominican Republic has been blessed by God by becoming the first territory in the American continent where the Cross of Jesus Christ was planted and by receiving Mary, his Mother, as Protector of the Dominican people. Likewise, he highlighted the importance of the Sanctuary of Higüey as a national pilgrimage center, which receives more than a million visitors each year, reflecting a living faith rooted in the heart of the people. He also underlined the historical value of the Church of San Dionisio, the first Marian sanctuary built in America more than 500 years ago in the Villa de Salvaleón de Higüey. The archbishop added that devotion to the Virgin of Altagracia continues to be a sign of unity, hope, and faith for Dominicans of all times, and an essential element of national identity.
