Devotion to Virgen de Urkupiña Takes Root in Chile, Attracting International Followers

In Antofagasta, Chile, Bolivian residents expressed their faith and devotion to the Virgen de Urkupiña, a celebration that has crossed borders to include people of other nationalities. This year, individuals from Colombia and Peru joined as "pasantes," or organizers, of the festivities.

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The Virgin is a mother and reminds me a lot of my mother, who is in Colombia. She has helped me in difficult times, to overcome sadness and to move forward in moments of anguish and need.

Jaime Guell, originally from Barranquilla, Colombia, shared how the Virgin reminds him of his mother and has provided strength during difficult times. He learned of the devotion through his Bolivian wife and has since embraced it. What began as a small family gathering has grown to nearly 200 attendees.

Another celebration in Antofagasta was organized by three pasantes: Guell, Peruvian Pedro Fernández, and Bolivian Asbel Colque. Fernández emphasized the Virgin's universal maternal role, stating, "She is the mother of all." Colque, who has lived in Antofagasta for two years, expressed deep gratitude for the "love, affection, and respect" the Virgin bestows.

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The Virgin represents a lot to me. She is the mother of all and I love her very much because that's how we were taught at home. She is always important to everyone; she is the mother.

All three pasantes cited health, work, and family well-being as their primary petitions. Guell specifically mentioned praying for protection, referencing recent difficult times, including a recent earthquake in Colombia. Another celebration in the Cementerio Alto sector saw dozens of devotees participating in an evening of music and dance.

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The little virgin gives us a lot of affection, love, and respect. Personally, she has fulfilled everything, and I am very grateful.

Micaela Román Mendoza, one of the organizers, stated their aim is to share this tradition from Bolivia and introduce it to more people in Chile. Cultural organizer Shirley Paredes noted the event's consistent growth, attributing it to the many faithful followers. The pasante role typically lasts three years, focusing on preserving traditions, faith, and related activities.

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I have mainly asked for health for myself, for all my family, and for my friends. I also asked her to protect us. We are living through difficult times, as seen in Colombia after an earthquake.