The Day of the Virgin of Lujan: A Celebration of Faith and Tradition

The Virgin of Lujan, also known as Our Lady of Lujan, holds a special place in the hearts of Argentineans. Her feast day is celebrated on December 8, which falls on the same day as the Feast of the Immaculate Conception in the Catholic Church. This makes it a double celebration for believers who honor Mary as their patroness and the Mother of God.

According to tradition, the statue of the Virgin of Lujan was carved by a Brazilian craftsman in the early 17th century. It was brought to Argentina by a settler from Brazil and was initially housed in a chapel in Sumampa, Santiago del Estero. However, it is said that the statue mysteriously disappeared only to be found again in Lujan, a town located about 70km from Buenos Aires.

The current Basilica of Lujan, where the statue resides, was built in the 19th century and has become one of the most popular pilgrimage sites in South America. It is estimated that over 6 million people visit the Basilica each year, with thousands of pilgrims making the journey on foot.

A Day of Pilgrimage and Celebration

The Day of the Virgin of Lujan has become a national holiday in Argentina, with the majority of schools and businesses closing for the day. It is a time for friends and family to come together and celebrate their faith.

The festivities start on December 7 with a traditional Mass held in the Basilica, followed by a procession with the statue of the Virgin through the town. The statue, adorned with beautiful flowers and decorations, is carried on the shoulders of devotees as they make their way to the Basilica. The procession is accompanied by traditional music and songs, creating a joyful and celebratory atmosphere.

On the Day of the Virgin of Lujan, Mass is held throughout the day in the Basilica, with special services dedicated to children, the sick, and those in need. Pilgrims come from all over the country to attend Mass and receive a blessing from the statue of the Virgin. Many believers also light candles and leave offerings at the feet of the Virgin as a sign of their devotion.

Sentences:

• The Day of the Virgin of Lujan is a celebration of faith and tradition in Argentina.
• It is celebrated on December 8, which coincides with the Feast of the Immaculate Conception in the Catholic Church.
• The statue of the Virgin of Lujan mysteriously disappeared and was later found in Lujan, a town located 70km from Buenos Aires.
• The Basilica of Lujan, where the statue is housed, is a popular pilgrimage site with over 6 million visitors each year.
• The Day of the Virgin of Lujan is a national holiday in Argentina, with schools and businesses closing for the day.
• The festivities include a Mass, a procession with the statue of the Virgin, and special services dedicated to children, the sick, and those in need.

The Day of the Virgin of Lujan is a celebration of faith and tradition in Argentina.

It is celebrated on December 8, which coincides with the Feast of the Immaculate Conception in the Catholic Church.

The statue of the Virgin of Lujan mysteriously disappeared and was later found in Lujan, a town located 70km from Buenos Aires.

The Basilica of Lujan, where the statue is housed, is a popular pilgrimage site with over 6 million visitors each year.

The Day of the Virgin of Lujan is a national holiday in Argentina, with schools and businesses closing for the day.

The festivities include a Mass, a procession with the statue of the Virgin, and special services dedicated to children, the sick, and those in need.

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