Parroquia Nuestra Señora del Perpetuo Socorro

Did you ever hear of a mission so grand it spanned across international borders? In 2018, the Parroquia Nuestra Señora del Perpetuo Socorro in Arequipa hosted an event like no other. This Catholic church, nestled at the foot of El Misti volcano, became the heart of a massive Redemptorist mission. For two weeks, the Parroquia Nuestra Señora del Perpetuo Socorro buzzed with activity. Eighteen Redemptorist priests, a diocesan priest, two Laurita nuns, and nine lay missionaries converged on this vibrant parish. They came from Quito, Northern Peru, Southern Peru, and even Bolivia, uniting to strengthen the bonds between these different Redemptorist units. Parroquia Nuestra Señora del Perpetuo Socorro served as the perfect backdrop for this inspiring event. The parish, part of the Archdiocese of Arequipa, sits in the Mariano Melgar district of Alto San Martín. It serves a community of over 40,000 people. The missionaries spread their message throughout the area, reaching schools, chapels, mission centers, and small communities surrounding the Parroquia Nuestra Señora del Perpetuo Socorro. They visited schools, led missionary processions, held family assemblies, and knocked on doors, bringing their faith directly to the people. The mission focused on both urban and marginalized areas around Parroquia Nuestra Señora del Perpetuo Socorro. The missionaries acknowledged the material and spiritual poverty prevalent in these areas. They sought to bring hope and support to those in need. This mission wasn’t just a religious event; it was a cultural exchange, a testament to the power of faith to unite people across borders. The mission embraced the Redemptorist style of St. Alphonsus. It was described as integrated, embodied, kerygmatic, ecclesial, Marian, and above all, popular. It was a “time of the Lord,” a symbol of unity, and a promise of new paths. The organizers hoped it would forge lasting bonds of brotherhood. Father Héctor Zegarra, the Redemptorist missionary and parish priest of the Parroquia Nuestra Señora del Perpetuo Socorro, played a crucial role in making this extraordinary event happen. The success of the mission was a testament to his vision and the dedication of all involved.