In the framework of the 925th anniversary of the apparition of the Virgin of El Pueyo to the shepherd San Balandrán, the Aragonese sanctuary has premiered an artisan bell that, according to the words of the bishop of Huesca, Monsignor Ángel Pérez Pueyo, seeks to be «a voice, a call» to help the faithful to «awaken, stop, and feel beyond». The blessing took place during the Eucharist of the Third Sunday of Easter, celebrated outdoors before numerous pilgrims.
A sign that invites inner listening
During the homily, Don Ángel recalled that «a bell is not just an object, it is a voice, a call» that does not intend to be «one more noise among those that stun us daily», but an instrument to help «awaken, stop, and feel beyond». Just as the disciples of Emmaus did not recognize Jesus while he walked with them, we often need signs to notice God’s presence in the everyday, the prelate emphasized. «The bell does not replace God, but it reminds you that He is there. It takes you out of the automatic and tells you, without words: ‘Stop. Listen. There is something more’», he repeated.
A unique piece and generosity of the faithful
The bell, weighing 300 kilos, is the work of the Cantabrian artisans of Hermanos Portillas. Abel, one of the artisans present at the blessing, highlighted the unique character of the piece because «the mold has been broken and there is no other like it, something that is noticeable in its skin». The bell bears the motto Salve Regina and the inscription of the 925th anniversary. The monks of the Institute of the Incarnate Word (IVE), who guard the sanctuary, had requested the collaboration of the faithful to cover the cost of renewing the bell installed in 1946. In less than 24 hours, thanks to the generosity of a family, the necessary 15,000 euros were raised. «We had a debt with Her. As we love her and she loves us, we have made an offering to her», summarized simply Alejandro, the father of the donating family.
A day of faith and tradition
Father Pablo di Césare, superior of the IVE, thanked the faithful for their accompaniment and the generosity that has made possible this new «voice for the sanctuary», which recently also premiered lighting. The Eucharist concluded with the blessing and distribution of cards with the image of the Virgin of El Pueyo, solemnized with the chants of the monks and the active participation of the Confraternity of the Holy Sepulchre, which held its annual pilgrimage to this Marian enclave. With this initiative, the sanctuary of El Pueyo renews its call to contemplation and inner listening, inviting the faithful to stop and ask themselves: «What is God calling me to now?»
Original source: www.iglesiaenaragon.com (published on April 20, 2026)
