By Sr. Alice Lansang, icm

Let me tell you about a peasant woman in Brazil, Maria Aparecida, who has taught me to be a disciple.

Alcohol and Jealousy

Her quiet strength, her enduring patience wells up from her deep faith. Countless times I have heard her say, “I have faith in God...” that Ze, her husband, would be cured of alcoholism. Poisoned by the bottle and jealousy; Ze tried to prevent her participation in the community. Yet courageously she managed to fulfill her different tasks as wife, mother and community leader.

For Maria, forgiving, the heart of Christian living, was no idle word. Maria incarnated it, never despairing, ever suffering, ever hoping in the Spirit for the day her man would turn from his womanizing ways. And then it came to pass. He did start a new life and not only that, now they are in marriage encounters together.

Community organizing

“I can do all things in the one who strengthens me.” This confidence of St. Paul the apostle lies in Maria Aparecida, enabling her to face the problems of community. Though unschooled, and unlettered, she was undaunted by the men’s opposition to her organizing the residents. Nevertheless, ten years of persistent persuasion and struggle for the rights of dwellers on the hillside of Lambicada has transformed the community.

Today Lambicada has a school, electricity, paved roads and water services. It took countless trips and negotiations with city authorities, as well as members.

Political Awareness

Her reflection in our bible groups moves the listeners because her faith is interlinked with life and political reality. I marvel at how she has understood the complexity of Brazil’s situation and discerned which political party was right for the nation. She then proceeded to enlighten and educate the community. As a missionary in Latin America, I can identify with this commitment – to live my faith, my religious vocation concretely within a political dimension.

Maria, is a woman of prayer. Her serene smile and they joy in her eyes reflects her awareness that she is lobed by a bountiful Father. Though life has not been kind to her, her prayers at celebrations and bible reflections are often prayers of thanksgiving and gratitude.

So too do I give thanks, O God, for Your abiding presence, your constant companionship as I met in wonderful women like Maria Aparecida. Amen.