Capilla Santa Bernardita

Hidden within the vibrant tapestry of Núñez, Capilla Santa Bernardita whispers tales of faith and community. The story of Capilla Santa Bernardita begins not within these walls, but in a nearby club. In the early 1970s, the Trinitarian Fathers held masses at the Mariano Moreno club. These gatherings continued for over two decades. A void emerged when the masses ceased. The faithful had to travel further to nearby parishes. Father Alois Bachmann of Our Lady of Lourdes Church recognized this spiritual need. He saw that the community lacked a local place of worship within a twelve-block radius. He began to envision a solution. He joined with Elsa del Corso to pray the rosary to Our Lady of Schoenstatt. They prayed for a miracle in the small Curuzú Cuatiá square. Their miracle? A place to build a chapel for the neighborhood. In 1997, a statue of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal was placed in the square. The number of those coming to pray grew steadily. Father Alois’s dedication led to the resumption of masses at the Mariano Moreno club. The rosary continued in the square. Eventually, masses at the club were suspended. They found a new temporary home in the house of Carmencita Casanuovo. For eight months, starting in February 1998, her home hosted masses. It also became a place for the Novena to Our Lady of Lourdes and catechism classes. During Lent of 1998, Lenten Gesture Letters were sent to surrounding parishes and churches. With Monsignor Aguer’s approval, these letters requested donations. These funds, combined with those from the parishioners, helped realize their dream. They acquired the house that now holds Capilla Santa Bernardita, at 3181 Zapiola Street. The chapel’s name, a suggestion from Monsignor Aguer, honors Saint Bernadette. He brought a large photo of the saint from a trip to France. He suggested the name, as the chapel faces towards the Lourdes Parish. Their miracle had been granted. On September 13, 1998, the first mass was celebrated by Father José Vallarino. The oratory was officially inaugurated and blessed by Monsignor Horacio Benítez on September 19, 1998. The first Sunday mass saw over one hundred and twenty attendees. The Capilla Santa Bernardita continued to grow and evolve. Building modifications were made. The oratory hall was furnished. Space was adapted for catechism classes. Today, the chapel stands as a testament to the community’s faith and perseverance. It has undergone recent renovations, creating more space. It offers masses, catechism classes, baptisms, and weddings. It also supports local families in need. The chapel continues to serve as a beacon of hope and faith in Núñez.