Participation in the 2026 St Ignatius Festival
We are actively taking part in the various events and celebrations of the 2026 St Ignatius Festival, held in the city of Manresa.
On Tuesday, 28 July, the International Ignatian Spirituality Centre hosted a lecture on the Manresa Samurai, Takayama Ukon (1552–1615), presented by Diana Rossell Cigarrán, a researcher, lecturer, and promoter of Japanese culture. The event concluded with a guided visit to the Forecave (Avant Cova), where participants were introduced to its historical and spiritual significance. Blessed Just Ukandono was a Japanese Christian of the first generation of converts who, because of his connection with the Spiritual Exercises, is uniquely represented in the Forecave (Avantcova) of our Sanctuary.
On Wednesday, 29 July, we celebrated Holy Mass in the Chapel of St Ignatius the Sick, presided over by Fr. Josep Baquer, SJ, who has recently joined the Jesuit community in Manresa. The celebration was enriched by the outstanding participation and musical contribution of the Coral Lupus Ensemble.
On Thursday, 30 July, the Gospel Project Choir filled the Sanctuary with music, delighting and engaging the audience through voices, rhythms, and songs that inspire the joy, hope, and happiness of faith. The proceeds from the concert were donated to projects supporting children in countries affected by armed conflict.
On Friday the 31st, Fr. José de Pablo, SJ, presided over the Mass at the Chapel of the Pou de la Gallina at noon.
The 8:00 p.m. Mass celebrated in the Sanctuary of La Cova brought the 2026 St Ignatius Festival to a close.
A full church, the presence of the Mayor and members of the City Council, the Seu Choir, eleven concelebrating priests, and the participation of the Seu Chamber Ensemble all contributed to the solemnity and significance of the celebration.
The Eucharist was presided over by Fr. David Guindulain, SJ, Prefect of the Sanctuary, while Fr. Valentí Serra, OFM, who was born in the Escodines neighbourhood, delivered the homily. This year's celebration held particular significance as it coincides with the centenary of the death of St Francis of Assisi.
Throughout these days, together with many others in the city of Manresa and around the world, we have celebrated and experienced anew the living legacy of St Ignatius of Loyola. For this, we give thanks to God.
