Peru Mission Immersion                            

Dear Parishioners and Friends,

Greetings from Arequipa, second largest city in Peru, where the Paulist Fathers are engaged in two large parishes, St. Theresa of Calcutta, and St. Paul the Apostle. After a longish flight over the vast Pacific Ocean, we were warmly welcomed by Bishop Giovanni (Huancane’ Prelature) and Fr Alex Busuttil (regional leader of the mssp). We are being hosted at the Ave Maria Retreat Centre.

Over these two days, we were able to visit some ministry projects led by the Paulist Fathers. The aldea or orphanage presently hosts 22 children whose ages vary from very young to the age of 18. All these children, due to difficult circumstances, require care away from their families of origin. Here I would like to thank the numerous Australian benefactors whose donations help sustain this orphanage, ensuring that the children receive a safe and professional upbringing, preparing them for adult life, including work opportunities and the ability to engage in fruitful relationships.

The Policlinic Mary Mother of the Missions has been offering professional care to thousands of poor people since 2023. The clinic is specialising in family medicine, and special attention is being given to ophthalmic problems, mainly due to the dry air and dust that are characteristic of the region at the base of the (dormant) Misti volcano. An adoration chapel helps patients and relatives achieve physical and spiritual healing.

The second day saw us visiting a child-care centre. Parents ask for their children to be cared for at the centre as they are unable to during work hours. The children are cared for in a safe and bright environment where they are loved and respected. This is a charitable initiative, and parents pay no fee. Again, benefactors sponsor the project.

At San Pablo Apostol Parish, Fr Victor Livori mssp showed us around and introduced us to the elderly people that gather there every Wednesday for mass, tea, physical activity, and the opportunity to connect with old friends. 

We visited the magnificent Arequipa cathedral and plaza de armas, followed by a traditional lunch. Tomorrow (Thursday) we travel to the prelature of Huancane’ where we will be spending the next two weeks. A beautiful vibe exists within the group, which is fast becoming a closely knit community. Please keep us in your prayers.  

God bless you

Fr Silvio