(ANS - Laguna Negra) - During the month of June, Nataly Gerhardt, a student of Biological Sciences at the Salesian Catholic Faculty of Vitória, worked as a volunteer at the mission of Laguna Negra, in the Amazon. In addition to evangelization, she was engaged in work to promote the health of the people and care of the local environment. Here is her testimony:

The Mission of Laguna Negra is a project of evangelization of the coastal communities of the Amazon River. It also provides medical and dental care for residents of the area. The project has a hospital ship which serves approximately 200 communities. The only access route is the Purus River and its tributaries.

The Catholic Community "Epiphany" is responsible for the mission, together with the Prelature of Labrea. Every year, in the period from May to July, it attracts professionals and volunteers who work in different areas for the common good.

When we studied the river communities from a biological standpoint, we observed the need for "vertical gardens", since periodic flooding in the region leads to the loss of most of the vegetables. We also held classes to promote environmental awareness in the field of waste management and water treatment, to prevent various diseases.

Besides all this, it was possible also to do some evangelization, with visits to the people’s homes and catechism classes for the children. My experience in the Amazon has broadened my understanding of service to others. It was a great grace to work for the first time as a professional serving the needy, following the advice of Don Bosco, father and teacher of youth, "the Lord has put us into this world for others".  No matter what your profession may be, the important thing is to serve and evangelize.

Finally, we saw how important that simple project was for the residents and the local community. Although it was only a simple gesture, it was well worth doing for the happiness and the benefits it brought to the river community.

After living for three weeks with the communities of the Amazon, I realize that I received a lot more than I gave. The experience was amazing and will remain in my memory. In my heart there is a burning desire to meet these people again. If it is to continue, this project relies on Providence and also needs human and economic resources.

Published 15/07/2015