“Oh! Minha Senhora e minha M\u00e3e” is how the prayer to Nossa Senhora da Pureza begins. Here before us stands the Capela Nossa Senhora da Pureza. It is a beacon of faith and history. This chapel is more than just a building. It is a testament to devotion. It reflects centuries of tradition.
The story of Capela Nossa Senhora da Pureza starts with an image. This image was of the Virgin Mary. A king of Arag\u00e3o gifted it to the noble Neapolitan family of Bernardo de Mendoza. The image embodies purity. It quickly became a symbol of reverence.
In 1641 this revered image was moved. It was carried with great ceremony to the church of S\u00e3o Paulo in Naples. This transfer marked a new chapter. Devotion to Nossa Senhora da Pureza grew. Copies of the miraculous image were requested. These requests came from across Italy and the world. Even the most remote places sought the Virgin’s likeness.
The first copy of the image holds special significance. Padre Caracciolo brought it to the church of Sant Andrea della Valle in Rome. This event took place in 1647. The Vatican Chapter solemnly crowned the image. This occurred on December 7 1648. The community of Naples embraced Nossa Senhora da Pureza. In 1646 they made her the patroness of their convent. A decree declared her patroness of the entire Congregation in 1647.
The devotion to Nossa Senhora da Pureza became deeply embedded. It was written into the very constitution. Each member was to recite the Office parvo. Alternatively they could recite the Rosary of the Blessed Virgin Mary. This practice reflects devotion to the Virgin. She is the principal patroness. She embodies purity. She serves as a model for Christian life.
The painting of Nossa Senhora is credited to Luis de Morales. He was a Spanish artist known as “O Divino”. Since September 7 1641 the painting has resided in the Basilica of S\u00e3o Paulo Maior in Naples. From 1647 onward Alessandro Francesi created copies of the original painting. The first copy arrived from Naples in 1647. It is venerated in Santo Andr\u00e9 Della Valle.
The people of Rome invoked Nossa Senhora da Pureza. This happened a year later. She freed the city from famine. Her cult grew. On December 7 1678 the Vatican Chapter adorned the heads of Mother and Child. They added a unique gold crown.
The importance of Nossa Senhora da Pureza is clear. Her image spread far and wide. It became a symbol of faith and hope. The Teatino priests chose her as the patron of their order in 1647. The cult of Nossa Senhora Da Pureza extended everywhere. This occurred wherever the Teatinos opened a house or led a church. Today you can venerate the image in many places. These places are especially in southern Italy.
Remember the words of the hymn. “Maria da Pureza you are the mother of the child God.” This Capela Nossa Senhora da Pureza stands as a symbol. It symbolizes faith history and devotion. As we leave consider the enduring legacy. Consider the countless prayers offered within these walls.