Condolence Message from the President of the Government of the Azores, José Manuel Bolieiro - Communication

Presidência do Governo Regional

It was with profound sorrow that I received the news of the death of Monsignor Weber Machado, a man whose life was guided by his commitment to faith, fraternity, education and solidarity.

Born in the parish of Água Retorta, Monsignor Weber Machado dedicated 66 years of his life to priesthood, having been ordained in Rome at the Basilica of Saint John Lateran in 1958. His academic training, with degrees in Systematic Theology and Mathematics, was put at the service of education and the formation of generations of young seminarians and students. He taught at the Episcopal Seminary of Angra and the Colégio Santo Cristo Seminary in Ponta Delgada.

In addition to his academic and religious contributions, Monsignor Weber Machado stood out for his tireless dedication to social action, being one of the main faces of the Cáritas de São Miguel association. His mission was clear: helping those most in need, being the voice of the poor and marginalised, and putting into practice the fundamental principles of Christian charity and brotherhood among men.

Monsignor Weber Machado was also an active voice in the defence of human and social rights, having faced censorship before April 25, 1974. He then used the freedom he gained to continue his mission with courage and determination.

Marked by a deep love for his fellow human beings and an uncompromising defence of human dignity, his life is an inspiring example for everyone. His work and legacy will be perpetuated in the collective memory of our region and will serve as an inspiration so that, in our daily lives, we can build a better, fairer and more supportive world.

The Azores have been home to great figures whose example has marked generations. One of these figures was Antero de Quental, an Azorean poet and thinker who, like Monsignor Weber Machado, defended social justice and the progress of humanity, always with a critical eye and a genuine concern for the common good. May his spirit of struggle and commitment serve as a guide for us all.

In this hour of sorrow, I express my heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, religious community and all those who had the privilege of knowing and living with Monsignor Weber Machado.

José Manuel Bolieiro 

President of the Government of the Azores