Episcopal Co-Prince calls for a fairer and more united Andorra on Meritxell Day
Josep-Lluís Serrano highlights the stability of the Co-Principality and announces a Meritxell Jubilee Year marking the sanctuary’s 50th anniversary
Andorra’s Episcopal Co-Prince and Bishop of Urgell, Josep-Lluís Serrano, has addressed Andorran citizens and residents on the occasion of Meritxell Day, calling for unity, solidarity and confidence in the country’s future.
In his National Day message, Serrano stressed that the feast of Our Lady of Meritxell is an opportunity to celebrate Andorra’s history, institutions, values and faith.
According to the Episcopal Co-Prince, these foundations have enabled the Principality to remain a free and peaceful country committed to the common good throughout the centuries.
The Co-Principality as a symbol of stability
Serrano highlighted the unique nature of Andorra’s institutional system, which is based on the Co-Principality and continues to represent stability, balance and historical continuity.
In this context, he also greeted French Co-Prince Emmanuel Macron, with whom he maintains close institutional cooperation in the service of Andorra and its people.
The Episcopal Co-Prince noted that 2026 marks the 50th anniversary of the blessing and dedication of the new Sanctuary of Our Lady of Meritxell.
The building was inaugurated on 8 September 1976 by then Episcopal Co-Prince Joan Martí Alanis and was designed by renowned architect Ricard Bofill. Serrano described the sanctuary as one of the most enduring symbols of Andorra’s national identity.
Meritxell Jubilee Year announced
To commemorate the anniversary, the Holy See has granted Andorra a Meritxell Jubilee Year, which will run until 8 September 2027.
Serrano explained that the jubilee will provide an opportunity to renew faith in the Virgin Mary, the country’s patron saint, and to pray for the protection of the Andorran people.
“We begin this Jubilee by asking her to protect our people and guide our steps along the path of peace, fraternity and hope,” he said.
A fairer and more united society
The Episcopal Co-Prince also called on the population to renew its commitment to coexistence, solidarity and shared responsibility.
Although society is experiencing rapid change, Serrano said Andorra has repeatedly demonstrated its ability to face challenges through dialogue, calmness, public service and responsibility.
He thanked families, young people, older residents, professionals, public servants and everyone whose daily work contributes to the country’s development.
Looking to the future, Serrano encouraged Andorra to continue building a fairer, more cohesive society that remains open to the world while staying faithful to its roots and defining values.
“A very happy Feast of Our Lady of Meritxell to everyone,” the Episcopal Co-Prince concluded.
