January 2026

Reading the signs of the times, rediscovering the spiritual identity of the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, and responding to the appeal of the Metropolitan Archbishop of Braga, the Brotherhood of Bom Jesus do Monte opened the “Office for Spiritual Direction and Guidance” at the Sanctuary Rectory, coordinated and guided by the Rector, Canon João Paulo Coelho Alves.

At a time when loneliness and isolation are frequent, spiritual direction seeks to offer a deep and authentic relationship of guidance.

This place of welcome will be at the Sanctuary Rectory and will operate from Monday to Saturday, by prior appointment, according to the contact details provided.

The importance of spiritual direction lies in its ability to help the person discern the will of God, clarify doubts of faith, and overcome spiritual obstacles.

“We live in a frenetic world, marked by secularism, individualism, and the lack of transcendent meaning in daily life. Faced with this reality, spiritual direction emerges as a refuge, discernment, and compass for those who wish to live the faith in a deep and authentic way,” explains Canon João Paulo.

For the rector, the “noise” of society — whether social media, the news, or work pressures — “tends to distract us from our interior life. Spiritual direction helps the person cultivate inner silence and focus on the voice of God, rather than listening to external voices.”

“In short, Catholic spirituality is therefore an experience of eternity in the present time, a way of living even now the fullness of life. From this vision emerges the opportunity that Catholic spirituality offers each person: the possibility of living in communion with God, experiencing and expressing the joy and peace that are promises,” he emphasizes.

Pope Benedict XVI stated: “Only to the extent that we live a true spirituality can we be a light for the world.” “In a world that seeks quick and superficial solutions, spiritual direction invites us to cultivate patience, reflection, and prayer. It urges us to discover and follow the plan that God has for each one of us,” the priest concludes.

Source: https://www.diocese-braga.pt/ (photographs and text)