Ever wonder why a piece of Argentina resides here in Madrid? This is the story of the Parroquia Nuestra Señora de Luján. It is a church with a unique history. It embodies a special connection to Argentina.
The story begins in 1949. Monsignor Anunciado Serafini gifted an image of Nuestra Señora de Luján to Madrid. The recipient was Monsignor Leopoldo Eijo y Garay. He was the Archbishop of Madrid Alcalá. The image found its first home in the crypt of Santa María la Real de la Almudena. From there it went in procession to the Colegiata de San Isidro. This was Madrid’s acting cathedral at the time.
Monsignor Leopoldo Eijo y Garay made a promise. He vowed that a new parish would bear the Virgin’s name. True to his word, in 1965 the image moved to the newly created Parroquia Nuestra Señora de Luján. Since then, the church became dedicated to Argentina’s patron saint. The image is a replica. It is identical to the one in the Basilica of Nuestra Señora de Luján in Argentina.
The Parroquia Nuestra Señora de Luján recently celebrated its 50th anniversary. The Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Luján in Argentina gifted a new cloak. It was a gift via the Argentinian Embassy. A photographic exhibition showcased memories of the past half-century.
The Parroquia Nuestra Señora de Luján serves many people. It supports around 11000 parishioners. Most parishioners are middle-aged or older. The church provides liturgical and pastoral activities. These include training courses and a choir.
The church’s Cáritas team has expanded. It now offers more services. They have doubled their activity. This helps more people since the start of the economic crisis. The community is very supportive.
You can find the Parroquia Nuestra Señora de Luján on Calle Ponferrada. It is number 49. If you are using the metro, get off at Peñagrande on line 7. Several bus lines also stop nearby. These include lines 42, 49, 126, 128, 132, 137 and 147. The church address is 49 Calle Ponferrada. Its phone number is 913 860 478.
The Parroquia Nuestra Señora de Luján stands as a testament to faith. It also represents cultural exchange. It is a place where the bond between Madrid and Argentina strengthens. Every mass and act of charity echoes this unique story. The church serves as a welcoming beacon. It is a place of worship. It is a place of community for all who enter.