Testimony
On June 19-22, 2025, we, the Franciscan Youth Pastoral group from the Jesús de Nazaret Parish in Curicó, Chile, carried out some mission work in the Nuestra Señora de Lourdes Parish. The parish is located in the Cordillerilla district of Chequenlemu, Chile, and belongs to the Diocese of Talca.
Usually, we begin a mission with the idea of helping those in need, but often the opposite happens: they, without even realizing it, end up helping us. Thirty-two missionaries took part in the mission, including youth leaders and confirmation candidates. The event was supervised by Friar Fabio MAZZINI, OFM Conv.
During the mission, we performed various services including renovating a family’s house, making door-to-door visits, conducting a children’s afternoon program, celebrating Mass, providing Eucharistic Adoration, offering educational and prayer sessions, and more. Through all of this, we became more aware of what we have in our lives and were able to reflect on the meaning of being part of a family and part of the Church.
What touched me most deeply was the door-to-door mission. In every home we visited, we were treated with affection and respect. The people we visited made us feel like part of the family. They opened their door to us and invited us to sit at their table. Even though some families belonged to other religions, they still welcomed us. We had respectful conversations, shared our experiences of faith. Personally, I felt that our encounters were born out of love. I came to understand that where there is love, God is present, regardless of any differences.
Another moment that impressed me was the Mass on Saturday, June 21, because the community we were visiting only had the opportunity to celebrate Mass once a month. Seeing the emotion with which they experienced the Eucharist made me reflect on how lucky we are to be able to celebrate it every week—and how often we take it for granted. It made me more appreciative and grateful for what we have as a parish―especially our Conventual Franciscan priests, who are always there when we need them, the community we have built, and every moment that allows us to grow in our faith.
Lastly, I want to thank Friar Fabio for the formation sessions he offered us. He helped us reflect and strengthen our faith, and better understand our role as young Christians. I also want to thank the local people and the youth, for all the fraternal moments we had together, which allowed us to share, laugh, rejoice, and create new bonds.
This mission taught me to look more lovingly at my parish, my confirmation group, the youth leaders group I am part of, the young missionaries who joined this mission, and those who organized it. Above all, it taught me what it means to be part of the Church.
In the end, I feel very blessed to have carried out this mission in the Franciscan spirit.
Peace and All Good!
Stefania Alejandra GONZÁLEZ RIVERA
