A PRESENCE OF HOPE AMONG THE PEOPLE 2

From Quelimane, I have tried to offer a presence of hope in the Christian community of Icidua, located on the outskirts of the city, made up of simple and humble people. This community is one of our first fruits. Often, we only have the celebration of the Word and the sharing of bread, because it is not always possible to have the Eucharist. There, we, as MDR, share the Word of God as a people, accompanying one another in joy, sorrow, and the growth of faith. We communicate that God counts on them in building the Kingdom as pilgrims of hope, a hope that does not deceive.

During the week, I spend more than half the day at the Coalane health center, which, incidentally, is also on the outskirts. There, we treat patients from different suburban areas. I have lived and shared with them the experience of giving and receiving freely. A series of gestures that include welcoming, listening, touching, and healing, above all, giving them the dignity of children of God. Despite limited resources and the lack of basic, dignified working conditions, including essential medicines, the most vulnerable are left to their own devices. In the midst of all this, we can only trust in the true Physician, God our Lord. We strive to offer comprehensive care as a team, including psychologists, and provide care for children with chronic illnesses, most of whom are orphans living with their grandparents. This is part of our commitment to the well-being of our patients.

(Sister Juleca)

São Martinho de Porres Community,

Chirangano-Quelimane, Mozambique