It was 2 p.m. when the first families began gathering near Iglesia del Carmen, along Panama City’s main Vía España. Dressed in white, some carried balloons, others held signs with messages like “The family is God’s perfect design,” and all shared a common purpose: to march in defense of family values and lift a public prayer for the nation.
This was the beginning of the “Mega Celebration: Family, God’s Design,” organized by the Panamanian Evangelical Alliance (AEP), which brought together hundreds of believers for a day of marching, singing, prayer, and public declarations of faith.
A walk of faith under the Panamanian sun
The atmosphere was both festive and reverent. As the city’s typical heat embraced the crowd, groups of children, youth and adults walked along singing worship songs. Each block became a sacred space, where religious leaders took the microphone to pray for families, government leaders, and the nation.
“God has given us the victory in Panama,” declared Pastor Priciano Gil, president of the AEP, from a platform set up at the end of the route. Gil reminded attendees that the event was not political but spiritual in nature, aiming to reaffirm to society that the family remains the foundational unit of the country.
Banners, prayers and a clear message
Participants held signs reading “Let’s protect the Panamanian family,” “Yes to life, yes to family,” and “God created male and female.” Some mothers walked hand-in-hand with their children, while church groups wore shirts with Bible verses.
The march continued with songs familiar to evangelical congregations, while onlookers and passersby paused to watch the peaceful procession.
A closing marked by unity and purpose
Upon arrival at the final destination, the crowd gathered for a brief ceremony during which various leaders offered prayers for the nation. There were hugs, spontaneous testimonies, and words of encouragement. The event, held as part of the conclusion of Family Month, ended with a collective prayer led by Gil, who asked for peace in Panama and unity in its homes.
The Latin Evangelical Alliance (AEL) praised the march as a public testimony of Christian unity and civic engagement. On its official website, the organization commended the AEP for its broad-based call to uphold traditional values. The AEP is one of 22 national alliances that make up the AEL.
Thus, through songs, prayers, and the waving of white banners, Panama experienced an afternoon where faith and the defense of the family took center stage.
