A businessman from Piracicaba, in the state of São Paulo, began a 320-kilometer pilgrimage last Sunday, the 27th, destined for the Sanctuary of Our Lady Aparecida, located in São Paulo. A notable aspect of this journey is that he carries on his back a cross that is approximately ten meters long.
Julio Cesar de Mesquita reported that this pilgrimage is very unique and blessed. He mentioned that before starting, he considered giving up on several occasions. Furthermore, there was an incident involving a partner during the departure, but according to him, everything went well thanks to the intervention of Our Lady. Currently, his experience is marked by joy, gratitude, and prayer for passersby who stop on the road to ask for advice or offer help, such as water and fruit.
Julio Cesar left Piracicaba around 10 p.m. on Sunday. The expectation is that he will arrive in Aparecida between October 7th and 10th, coinciding with the proximity of Our Lady Aparecida's Day, celebrated on October 12th. This is the first time the businessman has participated in a pilgrimage to the Sanctuary.
In conversation with EPTV, an affiliate of TV Globo, he informed that he covers an average of 25 to 35 kilometers daily, although he has already completed a stretch of 50 kilometers in about ten hours. For Julio, the weight of the cross becomes secondary to his faith. He stated that the object does not seem heavy to him, describing the experience as something inexplicable, reserved only for those who experience the pilgrimage, and that he relies on the divine strength of Our Lady and Jesus to complete the journey.
Reflection and purpose
The businessman undertakes the entire route alone. In his view, this choice allows for deeper introspection on various aspects of life. He explains that walking alone facilitates a deep dialogue with himself, God, and Our Lady, which constitutes his legacy on this journey. Being isolated provides a reflection totally focused on oneself, which is extremely profound.
In addition to reflection, Julio Cesar shared the reasons driving this challenge. The main one is to express gratitude for having his family and for the ability to provide for it. He also has a personal goal, defining purpose as something that influences daily activities and sometimes causes obstacles. His desire is to direct all these purposes under the protection of Our Lady.