The Pilgrimage of the Martyrs took place on July 18 and 19, 2026, in Ribeirão Cascalheira (MT), in the Prelature of São Félix do Araguaia. Under the theme “Witnesses of Hope, ” the gathering commemorated the 50th anniversary of the martyrdom of Father João Bosco Penido Burnier, who was murdered in 1976 while defending women who were being tortured.
When we hear the word “martyr” or “martyrdom,” we tend to think immediately of death. However, I came to understand that martyrdom is, above all, self-sacrifice: a life offered up for justice, human dignity, and the Kingdom of God.
At this pilgrimage, as we commemorate the 50th anniversary of the martyrdom of Fr. João Bosco Burnier, we discover that his witness teaches us that true love is never indifferent. It is a love that is moved by the suffering of others, that commits itself, that defends life, and that remains faithful to the Gospel, even when it demands self-sacrifice and courage.
The mystique of the martyrs does not stem from a desire to die, but from the profound experience of a God who is Love. Those who truly love learn to give themselves completely. That is why martyrdom is the fullest expression of love made flesh: a love that becomes service, solidarity, and hope.
May the lives of João Bosco Burnier and so many martyrs from our land inspire us to live a committed faith—one capable of transforming pain into hope, fear into courage, and love into a daily dedication to the lives of our brothers and sisters.
Angie Carolina Gelvez, novice
