by Fr Sławomir Drapiewski, SDB
It’s a few months since I came to Manaus. My first experiences were totally different from what I had before. I now live in the midst of constant heat and high humidity. The food is totally different. I am trying to speak a language other than Polish, my mother tongue. (...)
The last days of Holy Week were a wonderful experience. On Holy Thursday morning, we went to the country and led the celebrations for the people living there. Even though we were not in the deep jungle, the scenery was beautiful and surprising. Homes are modest, separated from each other, and the people, although poor, are happy.
Our job was to prepare the liturgy, visit families, pray and preach the Gospel. From the beginning people cannot hide their happiness at the presence of a priest who celebrates Mass for them. It is the first time that the Easter Triduum was celebrated in those places: it was beautiful to see the joy and the participation of the people.
During the day, I visited sick and elderly people, and families. In each house we shared the love and hope of Christ. I hope we succeeded ...
The poverty, health problems, and lack of education raised many questions for me. The most exciting thing was the desire of people to receive Christ. In my memory, I still see the tears in the eyes of the people when they speak of the love of Jesus.
For a few days I have experienced the Church of the Poor, the Church that longs for the sacraments in the midst of simplicity. Missionary service is necessary to bring the flame of hope and faith in Christ. I thank God for this time ... For every effort, every confession, every anointing of the sick, every prayer and Eucharist.
