ROME – The Embassy of the Dominican Republic to the Holy See orchestrated a distinctive multicultural celebration at Rome’s historic San Marcello al Corso Church, presenting a vibrant tapestry of the nation’s cultural, artistic, and spiritual legacy. Ambassador Víctor Suárez Díaz inaugurated the proceedings by presiding over a special Mass, emphasizing the importance of faith as a foundational element preceding an evening dedicated to artistic showcases.
The Eucharistic gathering united members of the Dominican diaspora residing in Italy with ambassadors and diplomatic corps representatives accredited to the Vatican. This confluence fostered an atmosphere of contemplative prayer and gratitude, mirroring the profound spiritual ethos inherent to Dominican society. The solemnity of the religious ceremony established a thoughtful preamble for the subsequent cultural presentations.
The event transitioned to a musical performance featuring Janette Márquez, a visually impaired opera singer from the Dominican Republic, whose emotionally resonant vocals left a lasting impression on all attendees. Her performance was complemented by the virtuosic piano accompaniment of Samuel García, a young musician acclaimed for his prodigious talent. A pivotal moment occurred when Dominican visual artist Melanio Guzmán executed a live painting, creating a work emblematic of unity and solidarity among the nation’s diplomatic missions worldwide.
The proceedings culminated in the ceremonial farewell of the pilgrim Virgin of Altagracia. The sacred icon is scheduled to return to the Dominican Republic to participate in the traditional Mass at the Basilica of Higüey on January 21, thereby reaffirming the nation’s enduring devotion to its patron saint.