A cornerstone. That’s what I want you to picture. A simple stone. Yet this unassuming cornerstone laid in 1961 holds the key to the history of Parroquia Nuestra Señora de la Anunciación. This beautiful church stands before you a testament to faith and community. It wasn’t always thus.
The Parroquia Nuestra Señora de la Anunciación began as a humble oratorio in 1937. A Salesian alumnus Luis Gnecco dreamed of a place of worship. A neighbor Arturo Chiodin donated land. The dream took shape. By 1940 the first part of the building was blessed. Masses were held. Sadly Gnecco died before seeing the oratorio fully realized. His generosity however ensured its enduring legacy.
In 1958 the Capilla La Anunciación became a vicariate. The future church began to blossom. Father Juan Terenziani a key figure organized the Apostolado de la Oración and Fraterna Ayuda Cristiana fostering a vibrant community spirit. The foundation of the current church was a significant step. The First Lady Elena Faggionato de Frondizi and Minister Abel Arreses even attended the blessing.
The Capilla transformed into the Parroquia Nuestra Señora de la Anunciación in 1963. Father Mario Quadraccia became the first parish priest. In 1965 despite the building being unfinished he held the first communion mass. The dedication to the community was inspiring.
The church continued to grow. Father Tulio Angeletti started a kindergarten. Father Salvador La Terra built the Capilla Espíritu Santo. Later the Capilla Sagrada Familia and a primary school were added. These additions reflected the ever-growing needs of the community. This expansion speaks volumes about the parish’s commitment to education and social welfare.
Then came a pivotal moment in 2012. The school sought a name change. The petition was presented to Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio. He approved it naming the school Colegio Parroquial Nuestra Señora de la Anunciación. This formal link to the parish cemented their shared history and purpose. The church stands as a beacon of faith and service a place of peace and community for generations. This isn’t just a building. It’s a living testament to faith perseverance and the unwavering spirit of the people of Buenos Aires.