They deliver the Golden Rose to the Virgin of Hope Macarena of Seville

On Tuesday, December 3, the Golden Rose was presented to the Virgin of Hope Macarena of Seville, a concession that highlights the importance of this image, a pillar of Andalusian Marian devotion.

Within the framework of the II International Congress of Brotherhoods and Popular Piety that is taking place these days in the city, Archbishop Edgar Peña Parra, substitute for general affairs of the Vatican Secretariat of State, was in charge of granting this decoration.

The Catholic tradition of presenting a Golden Rose dates back to the Middle Ages, and over the centuries it has been awarded to monasteries, shrines and notable personalities in recognition of their commitment to the faith.

This high distinction, a “gift” from Pope Francis to one of the most venerated and emblematic Marian devotions in the city of Seville, is also a “profound recognition of popular piety” and a clear sign of his support “for this path of experience of faith.”

This is explained to ACI Prensa by the Archbishop of Seville, Mons. José Ángel Saiz Meneses, who affirms that this gesture “reinforces the Christian and Marian identity of the city and constitutes a call to spiritual renewal and commitment to the values ​​of the Gospel.” .

Mons. Saiz Meneses reaffirms that the Golden Rose is also an impulse “for the brotherhoods and brotherhoods, and the devotees of the Macarena to continue working in spirituality, formation, evangelization, charity and support for those most in need, thus reflecting the spirit of the Pope and his message of love and hope.”

In this sense, he also highlighted that the pontifical gift “becomes a symbol of unity and mission within the Sevillian Catholic community”, as well as “of faith and hope in the lives of believers.”

The prelate highlighted “that the fervor towards the Macarena is not limited to the local level, but rather has a universal projection,” and that this recognition will also encourage “its devotion and attract even more pilgrims and devotees from other places.”

“The Golden Rose also symbolizes the unity of the Catholic community in Seville, reinforcing the sense of belonging and pride among the brothers, who see themselves ratified and accompanied in their faith and traditions by the approval of the Pope,” he noted.

In short, it is a “gift” that “strengthens faith, promotes devotion and unites the community of Seville in a celebration that has fruits both spiritually and charitablely, and even in the cultural sphere.”

To delve into the meaning of this concession, the archbishop highlighted that “the faith of the Sevillians and Andalusians is an intense, deep faith, rooted in tradition, characterized by a personal and collective experience, where spirituality is intertwined with culture and local customs.

“This faith is manifested in liturgical celebrations, and in devotion to images and sanctuaries, and maintains religious traditions that are an integral part of community life,” he said.

He also expressed his hope that this recognition helps “to grow in the consciousness of filiation with respect to Mary, to be aware of her presence and protection in daily life, and that it serves as an impetus for new generations to get closer to the Virgin Mary.” , and occupy a special place in their lives.”

In this sense, he assured that the Golden Rose “can be considered a call to spiritual renewal and a reinforcement of Christian and Marian identity in our society.”