Peruvians to consecrate country to Virgin Mary in wake of devastating earthquake

Lima, Peru, Aug 27, 2007 / 08:51 am

On August 30, at noon local time, Peruvians will consecrate their country to the Virgin Mary during the closing of the National Eucharistic Congress presided over by Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, in front of the Cathedral of Chimbote in northern Peru.

The official consecration prayer, which makes specific reference to the devastation that Peru is experiencing from the earthquake that left 500 dead and more than 100,000 homeless, has been disseminated by the Apostolate for the Family Rosary.

“Today, Mary, the eyes of the brothers and sisters of Jesus, who is only Son of the Eternal Father, and of you, ever Virgin, turn to you. In this hour of grace and blessing for Peru, we desire to reaffirm our faith in Christ, the Way, the Truth and the Life, whose Word we wish to receive in our hearts as you received it, being renewed by the Eucharist.
Today we wish to entrust to you the future that awaits us, and we implore you to accompany us in our commitment,” the prayer begins.

“Holy Mary,” it continues, “we know the road is arduous; this glorious land, the birthplace of saints, is now afflicted by violence and death, by poverty and injustice. Mother of the Church, enlighten the people of Peru along the paths of faith, hope and love! Help us to live the commitment of our consecration for the benefit of the entire Peruvian people, our coast, mountains and rain forest.  Comfort the sad and the depressed, those who have no families, or loved ones or friends.”

“In your hands, oh Virgin, we place the hopes and fatigues, joys and sorrows of the families that live in his land that you love so much,” the prayer goes on to say.  “We wish to offer to you the entire People of God that journeys in Peru and place ourselves close to your motherly Immaculate Heart, in order that we might be courageous witnesses of the truth, defenders of the dignity of our brothers and sisters, and builders of unity. Pray for us, Holy Mother of God. We want to live for Christ. Amen,” the prayer concludes.