Ever wonder about the story behind this beautiful church? This is the Paróquia Nossa Senhora do Paraíso. It stands as a testament to faith and community in Santo André.
The Paróquia Nossa Senhora do Paraíso has a rich history. Its story began on June 24 1965. Dom Jorge Marcos de Oliveira established it. He declared it the Paróquia Nossa Senhora do Paraíso. It was located in the Bairro do Paraíso. Padre Luís Paganini became the first Vicar.
In 1971 a significant event occurred. Bishop Dom Jorge Marcos de Oliveira blessed the Igreja Matriz Nossa Senhora do Paraíso. This marked a new chapter for the church.
Padre Luis Paganini stepped down in 1972 because of illness. Despite his illness he continued to serve. He was known for his humility and welcoming nature. Padre Fernando Godat then served for over 10 years. He obtained information and photos of Nossa Senhora do Paraíso. It was achieved with a family from Belgium. This image is venerated today.
Padre Fernando also built the Casa Paroquial. He used his family’s and benefactors’ savings. This house provided housing for priests. Sadly Padre Fernando Godat passed away in 1982.
In 1984 Padre Djalma Alves dos Santos became the Páraco. He launched the Capela São Francisco de Assis. Celebrations began in Favela Gamboa in 1987. The Comunidade Nossa Senhora Aparecida was founded. Padre Djalma left in 1989.
Padre Humberto Jair Dinatto was named Páraco in 1990. He stayed until 1996. Dom Claudio Hummes blessed and inaugurated the Capela São Francisco de Assis e Santa Rita de Cássia.
Padre Vanderlei Ribeiro became the Páraco in 1998. Celebrations moved to the Sede da Organização Social dos Moradores. A cross was placed where the Capela Nossa Senhora Aparecida e Santo Expedito would be built.
The Comunidade São Vicente de Paulo started in a resident’s home. Later a chapel was built. It was named Capela São Vicente de Paulo e Nossa Senhora Rosa Mística.
Padre Vanderlei Ribeiro served for two decades. During his tenure the Paróquia participated in major events. These included the Tríduo de Preparação para o Novo Milênio. There was also a meeting with Pope João Paulo II. He also oversaw the visit of Pope Bento VI. The Matriz Nossa Senhora do Paraíso was renovated. The tower and Capela do Santíssimo were built.
Currently Padre Vanderlei Nunes leads the Paróquia. He assumed the role in 2016.
Today the Paróquia Nossa Senhora do Paraíso continues its mission. It serves the community with faith and dedication. You can attend masses here. They are held on Sundays at 7 AM 10:30 AM and 7 PM. You can contact the Secretaria Paroquial for more information. The number is 4426-8907. You can also visit Rua Macaúba 403.