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Bishop Valdivia: Ceuta represents ‘historic mission’ for Spain

August 6, 2026 · 1 min read

The apostolic administrator of the Spanish Diocese of Cádiz and Ceuta, Bishop Ramón Valdivia, analyzed the situation in Ceuta following the mass crossing of the Tarajal border by approximately 70,000 people last week.

"We are aware of the historic mission that Ceuta represents for our entire nation; we are a bastion of faith that loudly proclaims the value of the faith in the building of a country,” Valdivia said.

“That is why we wish to lift our gaze and see the Lord on our horizon — walking upon the waters of the Strait, approaching our boat, and saying to us: ‘Do not be afraid; it is I,’" he added in remarks released by the diocese in response to the numerous interview requests received in recent days.

Referring to the Ceuta’s patron saint festivities, Valdivia remarked that “centered around St. Mary of Africa, one can understand the faith of a people who have endured centuries of hardship” and that, following events like those of last week, “while it is true there is anger, fear, and at times even a desire to give up, we do not want to do so.”

“The presence of the Virgin Mary offers comfort, peace, and security in God and fosters compassion while simultaneously…

Source: Catholic News Agency  ·  Read the full story →
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Petra Kováčová
Bishop Valdivia spoke well about the historic mission of Ceuta as a bastion of faith. Here in Michalovci, we can imagine it when one looks at our churches, which have endured for centuries. And that memory of the Virgin Mary of Africa and her words "don't worry, it's me" is really what one needs when everything seems chaotic.
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Νίκη Χατζή
Bishop Valdivia is right to speak of the historical mission of Ceuta. Here in Cyprus we know well what it means to be a stronghold of faith for centuries now, with our Virgin Mary holding us. The "fear not, it is I" that the Virgin Mary of Africa also says is exactly what is needed when such waves come.
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