Iglesia Católica Sagrados Corazones – Bellavista

“Lost souls seeking solace, eh?” a raspy voice whispered. I turned to see an old woman, her eyes twinkling with amusement, gesturing towards the Iglesia Católica Sagrados Corazones – Bellavista. Intrigued, I stepped closer to this sanctuary nestled in the heart of Bellavista, Quito. The Iglesia Católica Sagrados Corazones – Bellavista stands as a testament to faith and resilience. Its history is interwoven with the Congregation of the Sacred Hearts, whose presence in Ecuador dates back to 1862. Initially serving as chaplains to the nuns of the same congregation, these religious figures played a vital role in establishing the Association of the Sacred Hearts. The Archbishop of Quito, Federico González Suárez, was an esteemed member. The church we see today, however, isn’t a relic of that era. Political turmoil forced the Sacred Hearts brothers to leave Ecuador in 1905. Their return, at the behest of the sisters, marked a new chapter in the church’s story. In 1948, the first stones were laid for what would become the Iglesia Católica Sagrados Corazones – Bellavista. The following year, the apostolic nuncio blessed the foundation. This marked the rebirth of their presence in Quito. By 1960, the new church was complete and blessed by Cardinal Carlos María de la Torre. A year later, it was officially designated a parish church. The first priest to serve the Iglesia Católica Sagrados Corazones – Bellavista was Father Luis Charles Albisser. The church pulsates with life, offering mass several times a week. If you happen to be here on a Monday at 7:30 am, or Tuesday to Friday at 6:00 pm, or perhaps on a Sunday at 9:00 am, 11:00 am, or 6:30 pm, you can join the community in worship. The current priest, Father Umaña Angulo Luís Enrique, carries the torch of faith, guiding the flock of the Iglesia Católica Sagrados Corazones – Bellavista. The church’s doors are open Tuesday through Friday from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Perhaps you’ll find yourself drawn inside, seeking solace, or simply marveling at the enduring spirit of faith within these hallowed walls.