The parish of Mary Help of Christians, which since 1921 animates the spiritual ministry, from many years has also taken the task of the “Refectory of Mary Help of Christians”. This was born in the socio-political context of 1990, and in time has become “a miracle of charity” for hundreds of persons.
Every day, from Monday to Friday, tens of people come. A group of ladies prepares the meal for these elderly, sick, poor people, and they do it with love, attention and care. “We are grateful that, among so many problems, God has not forgotten us”, affirms Emilio Loo, who feels he is still useful, even though at 75 years of age he cannot manage to find a job.
Eighteen groups take it in turn to prepare the meals. Each group has the task to find the food. These supplies are collected door to door. “We receive half a kilo of potatoes, a piece of pumpkin, two onions…”, they say. Some volunteers collaborate with the ladies in the kitchen: they help to prepare, to serve the meal; they lead the prayer, or exchange a few words with the guest in the refectory. This service is rendered from 2 to 6pm.
Mr Fernando Soto used to accompany his wife, Esther Arce, from house to house to collect food. Now she is dead, and he continues his mission, with the task of running the refectory.
In this way, day after day, the hand of Providence and the generosity of many people make it possible for this miracle of charity to take place in the Refectory of Mary Help of Christians.
