Iglesia Nuestra Señora de Fatima

Was 1917 a blessed year? In Portugal, apparitions of Our Lady of Fátima drew pilgrims. Meanwhile, in Buenos Aires, a child named José Victorio Allegri was born. His birthdate, some sources claim, was May 13th, coinciding with the Fátima apparitions. Another source states June 26th, a time when Fátima was already a pilgrimage site. Years later, this child, Father Allegri, would leave an indelible mark on Córdoba, specifically at the Iglesia Nuestra Señora de Fátima in Barrio Matienzo. Ordained in 1942, Father Allegri’s path to Córdoba was paved with health challenges. He sought refuge in Deán Funes with his mother and sister, serving as chaplain until his recovery. Bishop Ramón Castellano then directed him to Barrio Matienzo. Here, his quiet but powerful work began. In 1961, Father Allegri arrived at the small Capilla Nuestra Señora de Fátima. He boldly proclaimed, “Next year, we inaugurate the parochial school.” True to his word, the cornerstone for the Santuario de Nuestra Señora de Fátima was laid in 1962. The community rallied behind him. They poured their efforts and resources into building the church we stand before today, the Iglesia Nuestra Señora de Fátima. Father Allegri’s legacy extended beyond the church walls. He spearheaded the development of educational levels, from kindergarten to higher education, shaping generations of students. His work continued until 1992. He truly embodied the spirit of his favorite quote from Hebrews 4:10: “Aquel que entra en el reposo de Dios, descansa de su trabajo, como Dios descansó de los suyos.” Even in 2017, a century after his birth, the Iglesia Nuestra Señora de Fátima community celebrated his enduring impact. His work continued to flourish, even more so than if he were present. So, as you gaze upon the Iglesia Nuestra Señora de Fátima, remember Father Allegri. Remember the man who, born in the same year as the Fátima apparitions, dedicated his life to building this sanctuary and its surrounding community.