Virgen de la Merced festivities observed in Argentina and Ecuador

Communities in Maipú, Argentina, and Machala, Ecuador, are observing traditional festivities in honor of the Virgen de la Merced throughout September.

In Maipú, the celebration includes an art exhibition by local artists, a novena, and a torch procession. The festivities culminate on September 24. The town maintains a deep historical connection to the Virgin, who was declared the symbolic first settler of Maipú in 1954.

In Machala, devotion is centered around the Machala Cathedral and various neighborhoods. A traveling image of the Virgin visits the homes of the faithful, allowing families to gather for prayer and song. Local residents and members of the Legion of Mary participate to preserve the spiritual tradition for future generations.