For some time, I had been thinking of visiting Peru again for the fourth time. I spoke with my wife, and we agreed. Then I contacted Bishop Giovanni Cefai MSSP, who welcomed my request with joy.
During a summer event in August last year, we began to approach some people. Word spread quickly, and within a few weeks, a group had come together in great harmony. We learned that Bishop Cefai wanted to build a primary school for children who had no place to study. We immediately began seeking funds to take with us, and a generous sum was collected.
We formed a group of fifteen, all bringing different talents: four councillors from Marsaskala, a lawyer, a businessman, three teachers, three nurses, someone from construction, a real estate worker, and another in human resources.
On July 28, we set out on our journey with enthusiasm and courage. We knew we were going to an area 5,000 metres above sea level, where the cold penetrates to the bone. On arrival, we were warmly welcomed and immediately set to work as requested by the Bishop. The religious community, made up of a few priests, sisters, and lay people, surrounded us with great care and accompanied us even to remote villages scattered around the region. Poverty was everywhere, and compared to them, we felt very rich.
We met countless people bowed down by hardship, living in homes that could hardly be called houses. We saw hundreds waiting in line for a dentist or for a small bag of flour and rice—just enough to eat. Yet what amazed us most was that these people always carried a smile.
We were also deeply struck by Bishop Giovanni’s way of life: so simple, without fuss or luxury. You see him mingling with the people, content with a bowl of rice broth with a piece of chicken. He is full of laughter, but in prayer he sets a profound example. He prays with eyes closed and without reading from any book.
After our days of volunteer work, we rested a little by visiting the Mountain of Seven Colours and the breathtaking site of Machu Picchu.
I repeat: without Bishop Giovanni, this dream of a missionary journey in Peru would never have been possible. A heartfelt thanks also to the whole group: Mary Grace my wife, Helena, Marguerite, Alexis, Celine, Miryea, Philip, Mary Rose, Josette, Franky, Timothy, Mariella, Alexander, and Mariella.