How did the desire to be a missionary begin?
For me it was a gift of Our Lady. I was ordained priest on 12 October 1985, the feast of Our Lady of Aparecida, Patroness of Brazil. I'm sure this date is part of my dreams. I currently work for the poor, those who are fighting for a piece of bread, home and dignity, at the Don Bosco Centre in Gramoré-Natal, in the Northeast of Brazil.
How did your first meeting with the mission come about?
I visited this Centre for the first time when I was Bursar of St Paul’s Theologate in Brasilia; I was shocked. I did not expect to find so much poverty. Six months later, I returned to work and live among them.
What does the centre do?
We care for vulnerable children and young people, whose dignity as God's children is not recognized. They need food, because they are poor and are confined to a world of an enslaving job and no opportunity for development. Currently we care for about 2,000 children and teenagers.
Of all the teachings of Don Bosco, is there one you have chosen as the rule for your work?
It is important to know what you have to do for others. The mission is demanding and full of challenges that require generosity. Don Bosco used to say: "I have promised God that my last breath would be for my poor boys". That promise is one I try to practise in my life.
The photo that inspired you to become a missionary – where is it now?
I keep it jealously and always carry it with me, keeping it in a prominent place. And that sentence is always in my mind: "Do not worry, little one, I'll take care of you."
