On the afternoon of Sunday, March 10, the Rector Major engaged in a fraternal dialogue session with Salesians and Daughters of Mary Help of Christians from various locations around Meruri. They attentively listened to the Cardinal's words, while he reciprocated by listening to the stories, anecdotes, and sharing of each individual present.
Following this, the indigenous leaders of the Boe-Bororo community met with the Rector Major, accompanied by the Provincial of Brazil Campo Grande, Fr. Ricardo Carlos, and the Rector of the Salesian presence in Meruri, Fr. Angelo César Cenerino. The indigenous elders discussed the community's situation, aspirations, and dreams, while also receiving words of wisdom from the Cardinal, who positioned himself as a paternal figure and friend to the Boe-Bororo.
At the end of the day, Salesians and indigenous people gathered around the "Martyrs' Cross" in the courtyard of the Salesian presence to pray the Rosary together. Following the prayer, the Rector Major conveyed the traditional Salesian "goodnight" to those present, emphasizing the significance of the day's meetings and the sanctity of the place. He highlighted its sacredness as the site of the sacrifice of Frs. Rodolfo Lunkenbein and Simão Bororo, as well as its role as the community's home church, where God's blessings are truly felt.
On the morning of Monday, March 11, the Cardinal visited the 'Tachos' region, where the first Salesian missionaries arrived in Meruri. Due to the condition of the roads after heavy rainfall on Sunday, it was not possible to reach the precise spot where four Salesian missionaries are buried. However, at the furthest accessible point, the Cardinal, accompanied by the Provincial of Brasilia Campo Grande and the Bishop of Barra do Garças, Rt.Rev. Paulo Renato Fernandes Gonçalves de Campos, listened to the account of the first missionaries as detailed in the historical letters proclaimed by Fr. João Bosco Monteiro Maciel for the occasion.
The Rector Major then imparted the "Blessing of Mary Help of Christians" to all present and to the surroundings. He proceeded to visit the cemetery where the Servants of God are interred, joining with everyone in prayer for the eternal rest of their souls and for the official recognition of their martyrdom.
His visit to Meruri concluded with a Mass animated by indigenous youth adorned in their vibrant traditional attire and artwork, rich with cultural symbolism. In his sermon, the 10th Successor of Don Bosco underscored the faith exhibited by the royal official mentioned in the Gospel of the day, who sought healing for his son. He drew parallels between this faith and the steadfast commitment of the Boe-Boro people to their cultural practices and traditions.
At the conclusion of the ceremony, the Provincial expressed gratitude to the Rector Major, highlighting his longstanding affection for the Campo Grande Province, particularly his dedication to the indigenous communities served by the Salesians. He remarked, "This affection and commitment will undoubtedly persist as Fr. Ángel transitions to other roles within the Church."
Following the Mass, a group of Boe-Bororo youths performed traditional, ritual, and recreational dances in honor of the visitors. The Rector Major was also honored with ceremonial face painting reserved for esteemed guests and graciously interacted with those seeking photos or blessings.
Later in the day, the Rector Major proceeded to the Salesian missionary community of São Marcos, where he was warmly welcomed by the Xavante people, particularly by the enthusiastic children who joyfully exclaimed, "Don Bosco aima'rowena!" meaning "Welcome, Don Bosco!"
The Salesian parish priest of the community, Fr. Alfred Heidler, delivered the official words of welcome, expressing gratitude to the 10th Successor of Don Bosco for his visit. He emphasized the significance of the Xavante people in Don Bosco's missionary vision for South America and referenced key points from the Strenna 2024.
Following the official welcome, the Xavante children, adorned in festive attire, eagerly sought blessings from the religious leaders. Bishop of Barra do Garças reflected on this experience, stating, "It signifies the integration of the Church into everyday life—a culture where respect, the act of seeking blessings, and the fusion of evangelization with cultural traditions are intertwined. It's a testament to a people who have embraced the Gospel while honoring their unique cultural identity."
In the evening, the Rector Major joined the indigenous community at the village of São Marcos to pray the rosary in front of the illuminated statue of Mary Help of Christians. Each mystery was accompanied by meditations and songs, paying tribute to Our Lady, with a different group leading each part.
After the prayer, Cardinal Fernández Artime received words of gratitude from the Xavante elders for the Salesians' work. He accepted their gifts and blessed everyone present, invoking the intercession of Mary Help of Christians.
Euclides Fernandes
Source: BCG Province
