The visit of the Pilgrim Image of Our Lady of Aparecida to the Salesian Cooperators of the São Paulo Province (BSP-BRAZIL) took place in harmony with the celebration of the 150th anniversary of the foundation of the Association.

The Salesian Cooperators of the São Paulo Province received the Pilgrim Image of Our Lady of Aparecida at the conclusion of the Salesian Family Pilgrimage to Aparecida on 16 August 2025. Since then, the image has been visiting the 20 Local Centres, grouped into the Paulista, Capital/Coast and Vale Regions, inviting Salesian Cooperators to renew their trust in the help of the Virgin Mary. This Pilgrim Image of Our Lady of Aparecida will be handed over to the Past Pupils on the occasion of the next Pilgrimage, on 15 August 2026.

The Pilgrim Image is an official replica of the image of Our Lady of Aparecida, made of resin and authorized by the National Shrine. It has a total height of 38 cm (35 cm for the image and 3 cm for the base), faithfully reproducing the dimensions of the original image discovered in 1717. The image is kept in a wooden and glass shrine, ensuring greater protection and facilitating its transportation during the pilgrimage.

Each Local Centre organizes the visit and pilgrimage of the Image throughout its community, bringing it to the Salesian Cooperators, especially those who are sick, as well as to the Salesian Houses and Schools. During the celebrations, the Image is solemnly enthroned so that the entire community may gather in prayer.

SC Maria Inês Bruno