Peru Mission Immersion
Dear Parishioners and Friends,
All good things come to an end—and so did our stay in Huancané. It was not easy to say goodbye to the many friends we made at Bishop Giovanni’s house: Fr Anderson, Dr Alex, Milania, Jenny, Mabel, Ron, Riccardo, Sisters Iris, Maria Pia and Vittoria, Donato, Fr Chris, Adriana, and many others who welcomed us with open arms. Together we shared meals, stories, laughter, and the joy of reaching out to God’s people in Huancané.
Our call to be missionaries in this beautiful yet challenging land brought us together as one community of faith. Many felt they were leaving part of their heart behind in the Andes as we loaded our luggage onto the truck and climbed into the van bound for Cuzco. The majestic mountains stood silent as if blessing our departure. Will there be another opportunity to journey on mission immersion to Peru? God willing, yes!
In Ollantaytambo and the Sacred Valley, Cuzco, and Machu Picchu, we experienced the depth and beauty of Peru’s culture and history. Life on these rugged mountains has never been easy, and we could see its imprint in the faces, hands, and hearts of the people. We marvelled at the earthquake-resistant homes, temples, and terraces built by the Quechua, Aymara, and Inca peoples—structures that still stand strong today. Blended with the grand architecture of the Spanish era, they form a rich tapestry of human creativity, faith, and resilience. May God bless this land and its people, especially all those of good will who work tirelessly to build a more just and fraternal society grounded in Christian values and hope.
As we flew home on the long journey to Melbourne, silence filled much of the cabin as we reflected on all we had seen, learned, and received during our time in Peru. We landed safely on Monday morning (13th October), grateful for the experience that took us beyond our comfort zones and allowed us to encounter Christ in the faces and stories of others. We returned home changed—our hearts stretched wider by love, humility, and gratitude.
Thank you, dear missionaries and Mission Immersion Peru 2025, for the beautiful and inspiring journey we shared. The memories will remain with us always, a reminder that wherever we go, God’s mission continues through us.
God bless you all.
Fr Silvio