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In Austria, a unique and vibrant tradition takes centre stage every September. For the Bicolanos and other devotees residing in the country, this month holds a special significance as they come together to celebrate the beloved patroness of Bicol, whom they affectionately refer to as Ina, or Mother, the revered Lady of Peñafrancia.
The Peñafrancia festival has carved out a special place in the hearts of the Bicolanos living in Vienna. It serves as a unifying force that strengthens their bonds and deepens their sense of community. This year marks the 20th Penanfrancia Fluvial Celebration in Austria, a milestone highlighting the Filipino diaspora’s enduring devotion and unwavering faith.
Scheduled to take place on the 21st of September, 2024, the upcoming fluvial procession is a highly anticipated event that draws participants from far and wide. The procession, set to sail on the MS Tegethoff to Hainburg an der Donau, is a symbolic journey that symbolizes the spiritual connection between the devotees and their beloved patroness.
Marizel Rojas, the President of the Bikol Society in Austria, shared her thoughts on the significance of the Peñafrancia festival in Vienna, emphasizing the importance of spreading the message of faith and devotion to fellow Filipinos. “We, the Bikolanos in Austria, brought this religious devotion to Vienna because we want to become instruments of faith among our kababayans. We want to spread the devotion to Ina, which has brought meaning to the lives of several Filipino Marian devotees in Austria,” she stated.
The collaboration between the Bikol Society in Austria and the Filipino Catholic Community has been instrumental in ensuring the success and meaningfulness of the Peñafrancia feast in Vienna. Their joint efforts have strengthened the Filipino community’s bonds and served as a beacon of hope and inspiration for those seeking solace in their faith.
The Peñafrancia Fluvial Procession in Vienna is not just a religious event; it is a celebration of Filipino culture, tradition, and identity. Through colourful processions, heartfelt prayers, and joyous festivities, the Bicolanos and their fellow devotees pay homage to their shared heritage and express their deep-seated faith in Ina.
As the 20th Peñafrancia Fluvial Celebration in Austria approaches, the spirit of camaraderie and devotion among the Filipino community in Vienna continues to shine brightly. This annual tradition serves as a reminder of the enduring power of faith and the beauty of cultural traditions that bring people together, regardless of distance or circumstance.
The Peñafrancia Fluvial Procession in Vienna is not just a religious event; it is a testament to the unwavering faith and steadfast devotion of the Filipino diaspora. It celebrates love, unity, and the enduring bond that ties together the Bicolanos and their fellow devotees in Vienna.
Contact: Lolit Vendivil Kaszuba N EspeNo Lob Noemi Callo Roselie Liao
- Hector Pascua
