Igreja Nossa Senhora da Candelária

Did the name Igreja Nossa Senhora da Candelária always grace this building? No. Our story begins in 1933, with a small chapel dedicated to Nossa Senhora dos Navegantes. Imagine the faithful gathering there, a humble start for what would become a beloved landmark in Vila Maria, São Paulo. Igreja Nossa Senhora da Candelária’s official birthdate is December 17, 1933, marked by a decree from Archbishop Dom Duarte Leopoldo e Silva. Father Fernando Baumhoff, a Dehonian priest, became the first vicar, laying the foundation for the church’s connection with the Priests of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Fast forward to 1935, a pivotal year for Igreja Nossa Senhora da Candelária. Monsignor Ernesto de Paula blessed a new, albeit temporary, parochial church, likely on February 17th. On that same day, he performed the first baptism, solidifying the name change to Matriz de Nossa Senhora da Candelária. The original image within the church depicted the Virgin Mary with the Child Jesus and a rosary. However, it lacked a certain symbolism. In 1947, a new image arrived, sent by Father Francisco José Kunitz. This image showcased the Virgin and Child holding a candle, a potent symbol of light and faith. The current image, a magnificent 2.75-meter tall wooden sculpture by Artur Pederzoli, was enthroned in the new matriz on December 19, 1954. She stands in the main altar, bathed in light, a beacon for the community. Although the main masses moved to the still-under-construction church in April 1952, the spirit of the Candelária community remained vibrant. Today, we celebrate the feast day of Nossa Senhora da Candelária on February 2nd, honoring the light she brings to our lives.