D. José Dionísio Gouveia, Auxiliary Bishop of Caracas, presided on Sunday, September 13, over the festive Eucharist of the Feast of Our Lady of Amparo in Ribeira Seca. This celebration held particularly special significance as it marked the new bishop's reunion with the land of his family's origin.
D. José Dionísio's parents are natives of Ribeira Seca and emigrated to Venezuela in 1962, bringing with them the faith and Madeiran roots that continue to mark the family's life. One of the bishop's brothers is also a priest in the Archdiocese of Caracas.
Representing the Bishop of Funchal, D. Nuno Brás, the Vicar General of the Diocese was present, in a demonstration of communion and closeness. During the celebration, the Diocese of Funchal presented D. José Dionísio Gouveia with a pectoral cross, as a sign of friendship and ecclesial communion.
D. José Dionísio Gouveia was recently appointed Auxiliary Bishop of Caracas, having chosen as his episcopal motto the expression "Do not be afraid, Joseph." The celebration in Ribeira Seca highlighted the strong bonds that continue to unite the Diocese of Funchal with the Portuguese and Madeiran community in Venezuela.
