Emotional Farewell to Andorra Rector Pepe Chisvert at Canòlich Sanctuary

Hundreds gathered at the Canòlich sanctuary in Sant Julià de Lòria on Saturday for an emotional edition of the annual Aplec de Canòlich, overshadowed by the impending departure of the parish's longtime rector, mossèn Josep "Pepe" Chisvert Villena.

After 15 years leading the Laurèdia parish, including Os de Civís, Chisvert will take over as rector of Sant Ot parish and the Cathedral of Santa Maria in la Seu d'Urgell from 1 September. He will also join the Episcopal Council, effectively becoming the diocese's number three, while retaining roles in Andorra such as Caritas delegate and education responsibilities.

The announcement earlier this week drew massive crowds to the sanctuary from early morning, with parking queues forming by 6am. During the 10am mass, Chisvert delivered a heartfelt homily acknowledging the difficulty of the move. "It is not easy when one loves a community and feels loved," he said, recognising some parishioners' sadness or confusion. He stressed that priests serve where the Church needs them, urging support for his successor, Colombian mossèn Joan Pablo Esteban from Sort. "Welcome him with a generous heart, as you welcomed me," Chisvert said, adding that Sant Julià would remain "home" despite the geographical proximity to la Seu d'Urgell.

Parishioners overwhelmed him with embraces, kisses and tears post-mass, amid sardanes danced by the Esbart Laurèdia and performances by the Ciutat de Manresa cobla. Chisvert received over 600 WhatsApp messages since the news broke two months ago, plus rumours of a petition against his transfer, which he gently dismissed.

Sant Julià de Lòria's first consul, Cerni Cairat, expressed "some sadness" but gratitude for Chisvert's community work, noting his ongoing ties to events like Canòlich Music—now set for 19 November at Barcelona's Sagrada Família. "We thank mossèn Pepe for these years of service alongside the commune for our people," Cairat said. The event distributed 5,800 blessed breads, 300 gluten-free, up 500 from last year.

Andorra's head of government, Xavier Espot, attended, calling the gathering essential for Lauredians and Andorrans alike. Chisvert praised new Bishop and Episcopal Co-Prince Josep-Lluís Serrano Pentinat's first year, highlighting his appointment of Anna Maria Villas as the diocese's first female general secretary.

Traditional elements proceeded unchanged: bread blessings, concelebrated masses by Andorra's rectors, term blessings and candle lighting for Mare de Déu de Canòlich. Applause and tears marked the close, with Chisvert emotional at the altar.