“Did you know that the story of Iglesia Católica San Joaquín y Santa Ana is intertwined with the grandparents of Jesus?” Let’s delve into the tale of this house of worship in Quito. This church is more than just a building. It’s a celebration of faith and family. It honors San Joaquín and Santa Ana. They were the parents of the Virgin Mary.
The tradition of honoring San Joaquín and Santa Ana dates back to the 2nd century. The Church recognizes them as the parents of Mary. They are also known as the grandparents of Jesus Christ. According to tradition, Santa Ana was born in Bethlehem. Joaquín hailed from Nazareth. Both were descendants of King David.
In Hebrew, Ana means “beneficial, compassionate, full of grace.” In Latin, it signifies “elderly woman,” related to “grandmother” and “wise.”
San Juan Damasceno praised them. He said, “Joaquín and Ana, happy couple. All creation is indebted to you. Through you, creation offered the Creator the most excellent of all gifts. This gift was a venerable mother, the only one worthy of the One who created her.”
The veneration of Santa Ana grew over time. Since the 6th century, Santa Ana was commemorated in Constantinople. This took place in a basilica dedicated to her. In Jerusalem, the grandparents of Jesus were venerated. They were venerated in the basilica of “Saint Mary, where she was born.” Later, the worship of San Joaquín was joined to that of his wife. This emphasized the union between the parents of the Virgin. Their feast day is celebrated on July 26. San Joaquín and Santa Ana are patrons of grandparents.
The Iglesia Católica San Joaquín y Santa Ana is more than a historical landmark. It is a place where people come together. They share their faith and seek solace. The parish serves the Santa Anita del Norte sector. You can find it at Benito de Legarda and 8va transversal N64-130. The parish office is open Monday to Friday. Its hours are from 15h00 to 19h00. Mass schedules are on Thursdays at 18h30. On Sundays mass is at 08h00 and 18h00.
The church celebrates the importance of grandparents. They are essential in transmitting faith. They also pass on values within families. As Pope Benedict XVI noted in 2009, grandparents are the custodians. They often bear witness to life’s fundamental values.
The Iglesia Católica San Joaquín y Santa Ana stands as a symbol. It represents faith, family, and the enduring power of love. Take a moment to reflect on the legacy of San Joaquín and Santa Ana. Consider their influence on the world. They gave us the Virgin Mary. They connect us to the very roots of Christianity.