By: Fr. Boy Toledo
Columban Priest Associate

On my weekly visit to Vila Nova- a very poor urban community in the parish of Vila Brasil, seldom do I miss to drop by the houses of Maria and Evans. In fact, they are the very first persons I usually consult if I want some information about recent happenings in the area.

Maria
She is a sickly elderly woman who was born in the area. She and her children live with her mother in a very small brick hut. Her inability to earn a living for health reasons I the cause of the perennial complaints of her mother about her church involvement. She is particularly involved with the youngsters Grupo dos Adolescents. Her dedication and fidelity to this group are quite impressive. That is, when she is in the hospital. At times I brought her to the hospital in my car and loaned her some money for medicine. once she visited the casa parpquial and fell in love with the chapel. Despite her condition, Maria is a sign of joy. She always has a ready smile as she extends her bony arm for a handshake. In spite of dire poverty, of hatred and criticism by those close to her, she is a sign of hope to everyone especially to the Gropu dos Adolescents.

Evans
Evan is a blind. He comes from another state. His family moved to Vila Nova four years ago. He is the second child of eleven children. He was born blind but seems to know his way around. Surprisingly, he is the youth coordinator, ever present in church affairs and ever ready to volunteer to do anything possible even to accompany me in my visit to the rural communities. He is jolly and seems very independent despite his blindness, he is loved and respected by everyone in the area. He hopes to see someday. He is hopefully expecting a response to his application for an eye-transplant.

Openness and Availability
Both of them are ever hospitable wanting to share their poverty at least through a cup of coffee. They are very open with me. Without fear and hesitation they would tell me almost everything positive and negative about myself as well as the feedback and needs of the people. They have lots of time to accompany me to visit families. They walk with me to the Invasoes-the new squatter area three times larger the Vila Nova, helping me to understand the people.

Objects of Jealousy
Our constant company and my frequent visit to their houses gave rise to jealousy among some parishioners. They also wanted the “padre” to visit them. While I try to visit other families too I maintain my contact with Maria and Evans. I know that my friendship with them adds meaning to their lives and sustain their hope. What they do not know is that likewise they are giving me hope in my own struggle. They are teaching me to be patient with my limitations. Their survival in their situations of poverty and disability shows me what it is to rely solely on Divine Providence.