Consider the story of a community’s unwavering faith etched in stone and spirit. This is the story of Igreja da Divina Misericórdia. It stands as a testament to devotion and perseverance.
In the late 1980s a group of devout Catholics longed for a place of worship closer to their homes. They lived in the Patameiras area of Odivelas. They desired a space where they could practice their faith without traveling to the Igreja Matriz in the old part of town.
Initially catechism classes were held at Primary School No. 5. The Doroteias Sisters led these classes. The Youth Group began activities in 1988-89 also at the school. On October 9 1988 the first Mass was celebrated there. It only happened every two weeks at first. Priests from outside the parish helped increase the number of Masses.
The arrival of the Palotinos Fathers expanded the community’s activities. Mass became a weekly event. The local authorities granted land near the city cemetery in Patameiras. This fulfilled the dream of having their own space.
Many people contributed to building the Igreja da Divina Misericórdia. Their financial material and personal contributions were invaluable. The church complex includes several facilities. There is the main church an auditorium named Rainha dos Apóstolos and various rooms for activities. Catechism is also taught here. The complex also houses mortuary homes. A parochial house was built next to the church. It serves as a seminary for the Palotinos Fathers. The basement has another hall called Salão S. Vicente Pallotti. An industrial kitchen supports events needing catering.
On April 19 1998 D. José Policarpo Patriarch of Lisbon blessed the first stone. D. José Alves Auxiliary Bishop of Lisbon consecrated the Igreja da Divina Misericórdia on June 26 1999. The community adopted the name Divina Misericórdia. Construction concluded in 2010 with the addition of the tower.
Today Igreja da Divina Misericórdia continues to serve its community. Masses are held on Saturdays at 3:30 PM with children and Sundays at 9:30 AM. The Brazilian community holds Mass on the first and third Sundays of the month at 6 PM. Please note that the Saturday children’s mass is not celebrated during the summer months.
Igreja da Divina Misericórdia embodies the enduring spirit of faith community and dedication. It began as a dream. It became a reality through the collective efforts of many. It stands as a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of shared devotion. As you stand before this church remember the countless acts of faith and generosity that shaped its history.