By Sister Victoria Lerin FMM

Floods were three meters deep after four days of ceaseless rain in Santiago, the capital of Chile, in June 2002. The worst hit areas were poorer sections of the city and nearby farms. Eleven people died and many suffered from diseases the floods brought in their wake. Farmers lost livestock.

A similar flood occurred in 1926, perhaps the worst in the country’s history. Chile has developed since then, much more in the cities than in remote rural areas. Those who buy the fine wines and fruit the country exports are probably unaware of the many poor people who live behind Santiago’s imposing commercial buildings. As a foreigner, I don’t understand the complexities of Chile’s business life but I don’t think that the well being of the people is an overriding priority of those engaged in ruthless competition for the world’s markets. The politics are like those at home – dirty. And the rich still get richer and the poor poorer.

The cruel snow

While Santiago had its floods, we in Punta Arenas, in the southernmost part of Chile, had three days of continuous snow. As a Filipina I was excited seeing the all-pervading whiteness outside. The snow, too, was three meters deep. Despite my joy I was also preoccupied with the situation of the people in the nearby rural areas with their sheep and other livestock. Thanks be to God, nobody died but some houses were damaged by the weight of the snow on the rooftops. The below-zero temperature caused great suffering and people lived in fear of La Blanca Terremoto, “The White Earthquake,” of 1994 returning. Then it snowed for a week and many flocks of sheep perished, the shepherds helpless. On both occasions the religious of the area helped those most affected by providing them with food, clothing and money and above all by their presence, with words of comfort and hope.

Our ministry

Our Franciscan Missionaries of Mary community gives catechetical formation to lay leaders both in the centro and in distant barrios. With some lay leaders I visit the sick, parishioners with disabilities, those with no voice, the very poor, and old people who live alone. We bring not only our presence but also the Word of God and the Bread of Life. Jesus, who made bread our food for eternal life.

I’ve been in Punta Arenas nearly three years now and the Lord, by his grace, has helped me adapt to the climate and culture. I’m still adjusting, but the fact that I’m surviving assures me of God’s love.

With some lay leaders I visit the sick, parishioners with disabilities, those with no voice, the very poor, and old people who live alone. We bring not only our presence but also the Word of God and the Bread of Life. Jesus, who made bread our food for eternal life.

I’ve been in Punta Arenas nearly three years now and the Lord, by his grace, has helped me adapt to the climate and culture. I’m still adjusting, but the fact that I’m surviving assures me of God’s love.