Dedicated to the Virgin Mary this is Nuestra Seora de las Gracias. It stands as a testament to faith and community. The story of Nuestra Seora de las Gracias begins with the Franciscan Conventual Fathers. They had a vision. They sought land for a new parish. With support from the Province Madre de Padua in Italy they purchased land from the Sociedad Maderera Blanco.
Nuestra Seora de las Gracias also owes its existence to the local neighbors. They played a vital role in its construction. Cardinal Copello blessed the foundation stone. From its beginning it was dedicated to the Virgin Mary. She is known as Mediatrix omnium gratiarum. This means mediator of all graces.
Located on the border between Nueva Pompeya and Villa Soldati it is more than just a church. It is a cornerstone of both neighborhoods. Next to the homonymous school Nuestra Seora de las Gracias is deeply rooted in daily life. On the corner of Cndor and Bonorino you can see a mural. It depicts Saint Francis of Assisi within the community. The mural was created in the last quarter of the previous century.
Inside Nuestra Seora de las Gracias you will notice the simplicity. Frescoes adorn the interior. They depict the appearance of the Virgin Mary. A grand staircase leads to its atrium. A kindergarten also operates in the lower part of the building. The structure is made of concrete with exposed brick. Multicolored stained glass windows line its sides. The church has only one floor. It features few images inside.
The mural on the presbytery wall is particularly striking. It shows Mary above the world. She connects humanity with Christ. On either side of Mary are Saint Francis and Saint Clare of Assisi. They represent the Franciscan Order. To the left of the altar stands an image of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. To the right is Saint Anthony of Padua.
According to Christian belief Mary is the mediator between humans and Christ. Through her divine blessings descend to earth. Prayers rise to heaven. Even during her life Mary interceded for others. A good example is the wedding at Cana or at Pentecost. Now in heaven she continues this work. Her power is unlimited. This is why devotion to Mary is so strong. Christians constantly visit Marian sanctuaries around the world. Pope Benedict XV established the feast of Mary Mediatrix of All Graces in 1921.
Furthermore the Instituto Nuestra Seora de las Gracias offers education. It includes kindergarten primary and secondary levels. The school focuses on Catholic values and Franciscan principles. The complex includes the Parroquia Nuestra Seora de las Gracias. The institution is associated with the Archdiocese of Buenos Aires. It also works with the Order of Friars Minor Conventual. The secondary level offers degrees in Social Sciences and Humanities. It also has degrees in Economics and Administration.