The solemn coronation of Our Lady of Mount Carmel on December 19, 1926—performed by the Papal Delegate, the Apostolic Nuncio to Chile, by order of Pope Pius XI—was the visible expression of a faith deeply rooted in the national soul. By proclaiming the Virgin as Queen, Mother, and Patroness, the Church and the Chilean people recognized a spiritual truth that springs from God’s very plan.
This devotion arrived in Chile early on and took deep root in the lives of the people. During the colonial era, Our Lady of Mount Carmel was invoked in homes, religious communities, and social life, shaping a Christian identity that would mark Chile’s development. This tradition bore fruits of holiness, such as Saint Teresa of the Andes, who embodied Carmelite spirituality through her total dedication to Christ. The presence of Carmelite monasteries throughout the country, dating back to early times, is a living expression of this spirituality.
The Virgin Mary in Chilean History
At the decisive moment of independence, Our Lady of Carmen held a central place in the consciousness of the people—the men and women who were leading that process of emancipation. On the eve of the Battle of Maipú—in April 1818—the patriots entrusted themselves to her to achieve victory, and the Liberator Bernardo O’Higgins proclaimed her Patroness and General of the Chilean armed forces, promising to build a church in her honor.
Today, the National Shrine of Our Lady of Mount Carmel stands in Maipú, the center of Marian devotion in the country. Thus, the birth of the nation was sealed by an act of trust in God under the protection of Our Lady of Mount Carmel.
Centennial Celebration
In each diocese, the bishop has designated Jubilee churches—primarily the cathedral, Marian shrines, and some parish churches—where the faithful may receive a plenary indulgence through a pilgrimage or a devotional visit, undertaken in a spirit of faith and conversion.
The following will be carried out various initiatives From July 16, the Solemnity of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, through December.
The Bishop of San Bernardo, Juan Ignacio González, has compiled a beautiful book of images for this commemoration: “Centenary of the Coronation of Our Lady of Mount Carmel: Images for a History,” which is available for purchase on Amazon.
