Catamarca announces Virgin of the Valley festivities

Religious authorities in Catamarca have announced the schedule for the Feast of the Protection of the Virgin of the Valley, marking 22 years since the earthquake of September 7, 2004. The celebrations will coincide with the bicentennial of the birth of Blessed Mamerto Esquiú.

As part of the festivities, the authentic image of the Virgin of the Valley will travel to the Valle Chico area on September 5. The procession is intended to support local pastoral work, including catechists, missionaries, and community soup kitchens. The theme for this year’s observance is ‘Lily of the Valleys, watch over your children,’ a phrase inspired by the devotion of Mamerto Esquiú.

The official program includes a triduum beginning on September 4. Authorities have requested that faithful participants decorate the fronts of their homes rather than placing banners along the streets to avoid obstructing the procession.