BY SISTER UNA BYRNE
Although I had been to Peru a few times before this past fall, I had never stayed for very long. So to spend three months among such a welcoming and faithfilled people was indeed a privilege and a gift!
Living with our Sisters Rosemarie and Sarah in a house where flowers bloom all year inside and out due to Sister Sarah’s careful tending, was pleasant and inspiring. These two Sisters dedicated to serving the poor, are also very aware of the injustices and inequalities in that country.
While there I attended events where people are working for better living conditions, better working conditions and answers about those who have disappeared. I felt very privileged to attend a presentation by the great Gustavo Gutierrez! In the beautiful new Health Centre beside the church, I could see the results of the work of our Sisters over the years, and still continuing with Rosemarie, to get better health care for the people of El Progreso.
Travelling with Sister Sarah even past the bus line to new areas where people are living on the dusty hillsides in shacks, showed me her passion for reaching out beyond the limits to the most vulnerable.
Sharing in the meetings of our Associates showed me their dedication to prayer and social analysis as they partner with the Sisters in trying to build a more compassionate and just society.
Much of this work is possible because of the donations from the Marillac Mission Fund and the people are most grateful for the support and help. I am so grateful for my time in Carabayllo, and for the people who shared their lives with me there.
