Sword of St. Michael the Archangel to visit Paraguay in first trip outside Italy

The sword of St. Michael the Archangel will leave Italy for the first time and travel to the Republic of Paraguay, where it will remain from October 9 to 19, 2026.

The visit was arranged by Paraguay's Embassy to the Holy See, the Archdiocese of Asunción and the Shrine Basilica of St. Michael the Archangel, which stands at the grotto of Monte Sant'Angelo in Puglia, southern Italy, where tradition holds that the archangel appeared.

Consecration ceremony in Asunción

The main event will be a solemn rite of consecration of families and of the nation, set for Friday, October 9 at 7 p.m. at the Metropolitan Cathedral of Asunción. The President of the Republic and the First Lady are expected to attend, along with religious and civil authorities.

Spiritual meaning for Paraguay

Cardinal Adalberto Martínez Flores, metropolitan archbishop of Asunción, said the visit is a sign of blessing, protection and hope for the Paraguayan people.

The sword has been kept for centuries at the shrine in Monte Sant'Angelo, where it is venerated as an instrument of the archangel's spiritual victory over evil. Its presence in Paraguay during the 10 days is intended to extend that protection to families and Catholic communities across the country.

Official program

The Archdiocese of Asunción will release more details in the coming days on the official program, the routes and the activities planned for the 10 days the sword is in the country. The sword is expected to visit various places of religious significance, and the faithful in Paraguay will be able to take part in acts of devotion and consecration under the archangel's protection.