Las Tablas Prepares for Santa Librada Festivities, Welcoming Thousands of Pilgrims

The city of Las Tablas is abuzz with religious fervor as it gears up to celebrate its patron saint, Santa Librada, with main festivities scheduled for July 20. The local parish announced the commencement of novenas on July 11, marking the start of an extensive religious program designed to draw thousands of faithful from across Panama.

Father Carlos Rivera of the Santa Librada parish detailed that the preparatory spiritual period includes liturgical celebrations and traditional acts. "We will welcome all devotees of Santa Librada to listen to the word of God and seek the conversion of the heart," he stated. A significant part of the observance involves the traditional visit of Santa Librada's image to the port of Mensabé, commemorating the arrival of the saint's devotion to the region.

Further events include a "Walk for Peace" on July 12, originating from Guararé to Las Tablas, and a procession on July 19 following the Salve Eucharist. The patronal mass on July 20 will be led by Bishop Rafael Valdivia of the Diocese of Chitré. Parishioners and authorities are coordinating efforts to ensure the safety and smooth running of the festivities, advising pilgrims on hydration and sun protection.

The devotion to Santa Librada in Las Tablas boasts a history stretching back to 1671, when an image of the saint is said to have accompanied Spanish settlers fleeing pirate Henry Morgan. Today, the parish houses multiple images of the patroness, which are circulated throughout communities and institutions, reflecting a deep and enduring faith among the populace.

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Vamos a recibir a todos los devotos de Santa Librada a la escucha de la palabra de Dios y a buscar esa conversión del corazón