Nearly 50 years ago, I first answered a call to serve in Brazil. As an American reflecting on my country’s ideals—liberty, equality, justice and opportunity—I’ve come to see how these values are lived not only at home, but also beyond our borders.
I first served in Brazil, working in American schools in Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. I loved the mission work. Life was different then—but the call to serve was the same.
During the 2024 General Chapter, the Felician Sisters’ international assembly that guides governance and mission priorities, the idea of returning to Brazil began to surface again. I laughed and said to God, “You must be joking—maybe someone else will go.” But the thought persisted. Eventually, I said yes.
When I asked our Provincial, Sr. Judith Marie Kubicki, who was going to Brazil, her answer surprised me: “You’re the only one who volunteered.” When I asked if I could go, she simply said, “Yes.”
The Journey South
Preparing for the trip required patience. Visa restrictions limited my stay to 90 days. I am grateful to Helen Yee, Health Services Administrator, for her help, and to Sr. Mary Alicia Adametz, who skillfully managed multiple flight changes.
After receiving a blessing at Mass, I departed for Brazil in June 2025 for a 90-day mission experience. The 20-hour journey to Curitiba ended with a warm welcome from Provincial, Sr. Maria Aparecida Vilas-Bôas.
I stayed briefly at the provincial convent before heading to the Amazon—true mission territory, where I had never served before.
Life in the Amazon
Reaching Japurá required long travel by plane and then a 31-hour boat ride along the Amazon River. When we arrived, I was struck by the vastness of the river and the simplicity of life around it. There were no cars—only motorcycles—and most streets were unnamed. People walked everywhere. So did we.
Sr. Alexandra became my partner in ministry, guiding me through mission chapels, neighborhoods and daily life.
The people of Japurá welcomed me with open arms. They were excited to meet an American. Children greeted us with hugs—some so small they could only hug my legs.
We cleaned and prepared small mission chapels that held about 30 people. After services, food was shared. Children arrived with pots and pans to bring stew home to their families. It was a powerful reminder of community, gratitude and dignity.
Faith in Motion
Each day, children gathered to pray the rosary with Sr. Alexandra, honoring Our Lady of Aparecida. Sometimes their prayer took the form of movement and dance.
One small girl danced joyfully during Mass and all I could think of were Jesus’ words: “Be as little children.” This was her prayer.
I was also invited to teach English in public school. I taught children and adults, sometimes team-teaching with Joseph, who translated when needed. The adults were eager to learn and deeply appreciative.
I was never tired. What I witnessed in Japurá was a living faith—God present in laughter, learning, music and daily life. Children ran in and out of chapels. Families showed deep respect for one another. Simplicity and joy were everywhere.
A Witness Beyond Borders
As an American reflecting during this America250 moment, I was struck by how the values we celebrate—faith, freedom, community and service—are most clearly revealed in relationships, not borders. This, too, is part of America’s story.
Leaving Japurá was difficult. Returning to Brazil after nearly 50 years reminded me why I first said yes to mission work. Much has changed—but the heart of mission remains the same.
This experience will stay with me for the rest of my life.
Called Once Again to Serve
Once again God has called me to do missionary work in the Amazon. I am spending April 14 through July 14, 2026 sharing God’s love in the Amazon. This time I will have an opportunity to teach English to elementary school children as well as assist the sisters in caring for the chapels and doing catechetical work.
Please pray for me that in the spirit of Blessed Mary Angela, I am able to multiply myself a thousand times to spread God’s love in the Amazon.
