In a world full of noise and distractions, it is necessary to stop and contemplate the luminous figures of those who have dedicated their lives to the service of others. The Servant of God Fr Bolla – who took the indigenous name of “Yánkuam” – was one of these, a man of great human qualities and Christian commitment who dedicated his life to the Achuar, “one of the noblest peoples.”
What did Don “Yánkuam” mean when he said that they were one of the noblest peoples? In all his writings he speaks of three adjectives: a distinct, honourable and generous culture. In one of his chronicles, referring to some young people, he writes: “they were magnificent young people, sincere, generous, hardworking at best.” The life of a missionary in the jungle can be extremely difficult, but for Fr Bolla this was precisely his vocation. Despite his weaknesses and frailties, he relied on the strength of the Lord Jesus to complete his work. Although the task of a missionary is not easy and the Achuar were a complex people.
Fr Bolla was unique and his total integration into the life of the Achuar was often viewed with scepticism by the mestizo community. However, his dedication and availability to his people kept him steadfast in his place for 60 years. Not only did he devote himself to teaching the Word of God, but he was also concerned with understanding and appreciating the values and culture of indigenous peoples. For him, the values of indigenous peoples were a heritage of humanity, which deserved to be recognised and respected.
Did you know that the Servant of God... ?
- heard the voice of God at the age of 12.
- left as a missionary at 21.
- was given the name Yánkuam', which means “star of twilight” by the Achuar.
- Was first received by Bishop Miguel Irizar in Peru.
- lived alone in the jungle for 17 years.
- promoted the establishment of the Uwijint Institute in 1991.
- was accompanied in the mission from 1996 by Juan Juárez who became a lay missionary.
- was first visited by Bro. Christian Castillejo and Fr Vicente Santilli, SDB.
- founded the secondary school at Kuyuntsa In 2007.
- and that in 2001, the then Provincial of Peru, Fr Santo Dal Ben, created a new community.
Fr Jesús Jurado, SDB
