Rediscovering The Heart of Mission

Our journey from Rome began on 7 August. After a long flight, we finally arrived in São Paulo at 5:00 a.m. At the airport, we were welcomed by Luis Carlos and Rodrigo, who kindly took us to the Provincial House to rest. In the afternoon, we set off again, this time to Campinas to continue our journey to Manaus, accompanied by Girley.

After spending the night at the airport, we boarded a plane the next day to São Gabriel da Cachoeira. About two hours after take-off, I looked out the window and was mesmerised by the breathtaking view below. For the first time in my life, I saw the vast Amazon rainforest with my own eyes—an endless sea of green, interrupted only by the long, winding path of a large river.

The sight stirred something deep within me: awe, wonder, and gratitude. At that moment, I realised that this was no ordinary trip. It was an encounter with God’s creation, a place where His presence was etched in the land, the water, and the lives of the people. When we landed, we were warmly welcomed by Julio, who came to pick us up and take us to the MSC community there.

First Impressions in São Gabriel da Cachoeira. My first experience visiting São Gabriel da Cachoeira in the heart of the Amazon was profoundly moving. Until then, the Amazon had been a distant reality for me—something I associated with news reports, documentaries, and television programmes. But now, standing here, meeting the people, and breathing in the air of the Amazon rainforest directly.

I felt a deep gratitude to God for allowing me to be there. As a missionary, I have always believed that our vocation is to go wherever we are called to serve, but being in the Amazon gave new meaning to that faith. Standing among people who live in such a remote and challenging place, and sharing even a small part of their lives, was a very meaningful experience for me.

The Presence of MSC in the Amazon. During my stay there, I was greatly inspired by my three colleagues—Leonardo, Alex, and Julio—who have dedicated themselves to serving the people in this region. Their presence is not merely physical; it is a commitment marked by deep faith and perseverance. They live alongside the people, share their struggles, and bring the Gospel into every aspect of daily life.

The challenges they face are enormous: huge distances separate communities, travel conditions are difficult and sometimes dangerous, and they live with very limited resources, as well as various other socio-economic problems. However, instead of despairing, they continue to serve with extraordinary joy and faithfulness. It is precisely in the midst of these difficulties that God’s love shines through their lives. Seeing their example reminds me that mission is not about big achievements or spectacular successes, but about faithfulness in small yet consistent acts of love and service.

Rediscovering the Heart of Mission. This visit renewed my understanding of what it means to be a Missionary of the Sacred Heart (MSC). Our primary vocations are not about having outstanding skills, extraordinary talents, or the ability to achieve perfect results. Our primary vocations are about presence—being there with an open heart, willing to accept people as they are.

The people I met in the Amazon were not looking for a superhero, someone who could solve all their problems or impress them with extraordinary skills. What they needed most was something much simpler and more profound: a missionary with a listening heart, a heart willing to walk alongside them, and a heart that serves with sincerity and love.

This discovery touched me deeply. It reminded me that our mission is not determined by what we achieve, but by the love we bring to our relationships. Presence itself—when offered with compassion and humility—becomes a channel through which the face of Christ’s compassion is revealed.

A Week of Faith and Gratitude. The week I spent in Amazon was more than just a visit; it was a profound journey of faith. I realised that mission is not just a duty given to us. It is a gift of self that brings new life to those we serve and to ourselves. In simple prayer meetings, in shared meals, and even in silence, I experienced the presence of Christ in a new way. The Amazon taught me that true mission does not always require big words or impressive programmes. Sometimes, it is enough to be there, to sit with someone, to listen, and to share ordinary moments in life.

As I look back, my heart is filled with gratitude—for the journey itself, for the people I met, and for the renewed faith within me. The Amazon was not just a place I visited; it became a teacher, once again showing me the essence of being a missionary.

I return from this experience carrying not only memories, but also a renewed commitment to live out my vocation with simplicity, being present, and love. For me, the Amazon will always be a reminder that God’s love is alive and at work in the most unexpected and remote corners of the world. And for that, I am genuinely grateful.

Fransiskus Bram Tulusan, MSC