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Balasar Eucharistic Sanctuary dedication

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2026-10-10 08:15 UTC → 2026-10-13 04:16 UTC · added ~~removed~~

The Archdiocese of Braga and the Alexandrina de Balasar Foundation ~~announced plans for the dedication of~~ inaugurated the new Balasar Eucharistic Sanctuary in Póvoa de Varzim. Designed by the Florence-based Centro Ave Arte, the 14-million-euro complex features a symbolic biblical ‘tent’ shape using bronze and limestone from the Fátima region, with a seating capacity for approximately 1,800 people. The ~~scheduled~~ ceremonies included the ~~transfer~~ translation of the remains of Blessed Alexandrina Maria da Costa (1904–1955) on October 10, followed by the formal dedication of the church and altar on October 11. Following these events, the sanctuary was inaugurated. Designed by the Florence-based Centro Ave Arte, the complex features a symbolic biblical ‘tent’ shape and utilizes bronze and limestone from the Fátima region. The ~~project, costing approximately 14 million euros, has a seating capacity for about 1,800 people. The ceremonies were~~ dedication was presided over by ~~Archbishop José Cordeiro of Braga and~~ the Apostolic Nuncio in Portugal, Andrés Carrascosa ~~Coso.~~ Coso, who urged the faithful to serve as points of reference to ‘illuminate’ a disoriented modern society. The sanctuary honors the legacy of Alexandrina Maria da Costa, a Portuguese mystic who became bedridden for 30 years following a fall in 1918. She was beatified by Pope John Paul II in 2004 and was noted for her profound Eucharistic spirituality; biographical accounts state that during the final 13 years of her life, she reportedly sustained herself solely through daily Holy Communion.

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