Perhaps the most interesting aspect of Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Zarzaquemada is its deep connection to the Zarzaquemada neighborhood. Founded alongside the neighborhood’s creation in 1970, the church has grown to become an important part of the community. Let’s explore the story of this church.
Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Zarzaquemada was erected on April 9 1974. Cardinal Vicente Enrique y Taracón founded the parish. This coincided with the creation of the Zarzaquemada neighborhood.
Initially, Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Zarzaquemada functioned in humble settings. Services were first held in the basement of an apartment building. Later the congregation moved to the old kindergarten hall.
Between 1980 and 1981 the current building opened. This provided a much-needed space. Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Zarzaquemada served a large community. At one point it had 2000 children in religious education. They also performed 1000 baptisms each year.
Several priests have served the parish over the years. Abilio Hospital was the first pastor. He served from 1975 to 2005. Young priests José Plou Antonio Pintado and Juan José Torrejón assisted him. Together they established the parish.
In 1989 Antonio Pintado became a missionary in Brazil. He still works there. In 1991 Juan José was moved to San Pascual Parish in Aranjuez. He died there in 2005. José Prou was moved to San Isidro Parish. Miguel González Laureano Hernández and Jesús Aparicio replaced them. Before Aurelio Carrasquilla’s arrival Jesús Aparicio was moved. Aurelio Carrasquilla became pastor in 2005.
In 2007 Miguel González became chaplain of the Aranjuez prison. Abilio Hospital remained as vicar until his death. Father Agustín Giménez arrived in 2007. A year later Santiago López replaced Laureano. This team served until 2020. Then Santiago retired and Víctor Marmolejo arrived.
Currently the pastoral team includes Aurelio Carrasquilla. José Antonio Campos is the parochial vicar. Antonio Sánchez is a deacon. They continue to meet the community’s needs. They organize religious education baptisms marriage preparation and activities for seniors. There are also youth groups Scouts musical groups and Caritas.
Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Zarzaquemada strives to be “salt of the earth and light of the world.” This reflects their commitment to community service. The parish aims to evangelize the neighborhood. They want to show God’s love to everyone.
The parish lives by the values of listening acceptance and community. They also value solidarity and forgiveness. They want to spread love faith and hope. The parish encourages its members to live out Christian values. They believe this can transform society. They work to promote justice and peace.
Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Zarzaquemada invites everyone to join their story. You can collaborate directly with the parish. Or visit the parish office for more information.
The story of Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Zarzaquemada shows faith in action. It exemplifies community building. It exemplifies dedicated service. It embodies spiritual growth.