Ninety years. That is how long the Paróquia de Nossa Senhora das Mercês in Ramos, Rio de Janeiro, has been a beacon of faith. It has been a community landmark. We stand before a testament to faith and history. This church is not just a building. It is a living story of devotion.
In July 2023, the parish celebrated its 90th anniversary. Dom Antônio Luiz Catelan Ferreira, auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of Rio de Janeiro, presided over the Eucharist. The celebrations highlighted the deep roots of this church. It showed its importance to the community.
The festivities began with Dom Orani João Tempesta, O.Cist. He is the Metropolitan Archbishop of Rio de Janeiro. He marked the occasion with fellowship and gratitude. Hundreds of faithful people visited Igreja das Mercês during the Triduum. They experienced the communal dimension of their faith. They received the sacraments.
This Rio de Janeiro parish holds a special place in the history of Mercês in Brazil. It celebrated its centenary from 1922-2022. Three Mercedarian bishops emerged from this very church. Many ministers, evangelizers, religious figures, and lay people dedicated themselves to the Church’s service in Brazil.
The social work of the Mercedarian religious is noteworthy. For nine decades they have supported the Creche de São Pedro Nolasco in Morro do Alemão. The parish’s social activities have always offered hope. They have provided opportunities for those seeking help.
Padre Frei Rogério Soares represented the provincial government. He is responsible for pastoral care in the Province of São Raimundo Nonato. He congratulated all parishioners for being part of the history of Mercês in Brazil. The Paróquia de Nossa Senhora das Mercês de Ramos remains an iconic reference.
Today Igreja Nossa Senhora das Mercês continues to serve. It offers regular services. On Sundays, masses are held at 7 am, 8:30 am, 11 am, and 6 pm. Weekday masses are scheduled as well. Monday, Thursday, and Friday have services at 7 am and 7 pm. Tuesday and Wednesday offer mass at 7 am. Saturdays have masses at 7 am and 5 pm. This schedule provides ample opportunity for worship.
As we stand here, let us reflect on the countless lives touched by this church. It is a place of worship. It is a center for social work. It is a symbol of hope in Ramos. The Igreja Nossa Senhora das Mercês continues to inspire.