The municipalities of Vila do Porto and Alenquer signed a twinning agreement to promote, preserve, and disseminate the Cult of the Holy Spirit between the two towns. The protocol was formalized during the Holy Spirit Festivities in Alenquer, with the Mayor of Vila do Porto in attendance. On that occasion, the mayor emphasized the common commitment to “protect, value, and revitalize this cultural heritage, promoting exchange between the two communities” as well as ensuring that “this legacy remains alive in new generations.”More than a simple formal act, we are celebrating the union of two lands that share a vision: that culture and faith, when lived with authenticity and respect, are secure bridges between communities,” she said.

Bárbara Chaves explained that the two municipalities have been involved in joint activities over the last three years and hope to continue strengthening ties through sharing, meetings, and joint projects where the tradition of the Holy Spirit continues to be a living force. Noting the importance of the festivities for cultural tourism in Alenquer, the mayor highlighted the social and cultural importance that these events have in the region, which are neither distorted nor commercialized, but rather lived and experienced, as is the case with the Marian empires.

Bárbara Chaves highlighted the unique features, as well as the similarities between the cults of Vila do Porto and Alenquer, specifically the preservation of the ceremony and original functions introduced by the first settlers, echoing the “empire” model established by Queen Santa Isabel, precisely in Alenquer.

From Press Release

Translated to English as a community outreach program from the Portuguese Beyond Borders Institute (PBBI) and the Modern and Classical Languages and Literatures Department (MCLL) as part of Bruma Publication and ADMA (Azores-Diaspora Media Alliance) at California State University, Fresno, PBBI thanks Luso Financial for sponsoring NOVIDADES.