Sister Helena Maria Dalmaso and Sister Mirian Terezinha Gracia of Our Lady Aparaceda Province are engaged in the Pastoral of Children in the Archdiocese of Trujillo, Peru. Under their direction and coordination the pastoral is being implemented in 21 communities, involves 493 families, and 578 children 6 years of age and under. The Sisters attend to 25 pregnant women each month. To accomplish their ministry the sisters have the support of 46 trained volunteers.
Sister Helena Maria is the Archdiocesan Coordinator and Sister Mirian Terezinha is trainer and leader of the volunteers. The two sisters empower the volunteers and visit parishes that desire to implement the program. The sisters also visit homes and encourage families to participate in the program. The Pastoral of Children has an office which the sisters staff twice a week and where they can train leaders and welcome those seeking information about the program.
This ministry provides direct service to those in need and is a concrete expression of mercy to those most vulnerable, “so that they may have life and have it to the full.” It is our desire to continue and to expand this work which is a visible expression of our charism.