Annie and Al made it to the end of their 140 km trek through Brazil on the ‘Camino de Fe’ (Walk of Faith)! Their reward was to be able to spend 4 days exploring the Old Basilica, the New Basilica, meeting people of faith, and beginning to understand the devotion that Brazilians have for Our Lady of Aparecida. A similar trek to the Camino de Santiago in Spain.

There is a Miracle Room below the New Basilica, where people have left articles of thanksgiving for miracles they have received through their faith in Our Lady of Aparecida. Many people have been healed, or protected from harm while in the military, or traveling because of the intercession of Our Lady of Aparecida. Annie and Al saw wax legs, knees, and arms left to represent people who have been healed of an injury. They saw the soccer jersey of Renaldo, a famous Brazilian soccer player whose knee was injured then healed through prayers. Also, a gown was left by a former Miss Brazil in gratitude for having won the competition. What an incredible experience to witness with their own two eyes these gifts of thanksgiving.

Another note is that this Basilica is the largest sanctuary space in the world dedicated to Our Lady. In fact, Annie and Al went to a daily Mass with 5,000 people! Not Sunday Mass, a week day Mass, wow! During the weekend Masses, over 150,000 people attend! What an incredible testament that is to the people of Brazil! Let us pray for Annie and Al as they continue their pilgrimage and trek through South America! Hail Mary….