News
Celebration of the 505th anniversary of Brazil’s first mass - 04.28.05
At the foot of a large cross in Coroa Vermelha, nearly 8,000 people commemorated the 505th anniversary of the celebration of the first mass in Brazil exactly on the location where it took place in 1500. The mass was presided by the archbishop of Eunápolis, José Edson de Oliveira and Padre Antônio Maria, with other priests from the region also participating. Veracel, represented by its President and CEO, Vitor Costa, sponsored the event. A number of authorities from the region were on hand, including the mayor of Cabrália, José Ubaldino Pinto, and the chief of the Coroa Vermelha village, Aruã Pataxó.
Taking advantage of the presence of about Pataxó 1,000 Indians at the ceremony, Bishop Oliveira reminded the crowd of the need for union among diverse peoples, and emphasized the need for protection and respect of indigenous rights. In a festive atmosphere, Padre Antônio Maria ended the celebration performing several songs with the crowd singing along as a chorus. Heavily applauded, he declared emotionally afterwards: "Tomorrow I’m returning to Sao Paulo much more Brazilian and much more a priest, and almost a Bahian." He said the party was a moment of renewal. "Every party is remembrance and renovation. We are remembering what happened here 505 years ago. We must renew every day the notion of building a country that is run on peace," he said.
Veracel's President emphasized the importance of the event: Veracel did not hesitate to support this ceremony, one of the greatest importance for the country and for the south of state of Bahia. It is a cultural demonstration, a recovery of traditions. I hope it contributes to the restoration of justice to the indigenous communities".