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Brazil
BROTHERS HALF A
CENTURY IN BRAZIL
On December 8, 2010, the Brothers CMM commemorated the day when 50 years ago the first brothers arrived
in Brazil. They were Sjaak Staats, Leonis Puts, Ignatio Beijers, Cristino Gemen and Jo Huiskamp. One of them,
the Regional Superior, Brother Cristino Gemen still lives in Belo Horizonte, where they established themselves
half a century ago. Brother Nicácio Huiskamp tells us about the celebration of the jubilee.
The Superior General, Brother Broer Huitema, arrived
on December 5 in Belo Horizonte to commemorate
the historical event with the brothers. On Wednesday,
December 8, at 10 AM on the Solemnity of the Immaculate
Conception of Our Lady, the solemn celebration of the
Eucharist took place in the overcrowded Padre Eustáquio
parish church. The main celebrant was Cardinal Serafim
Fernandes de Araújo, Archbishop Emeritus of Belo
Horizonte. Concelebrating were Bishop Emeritus of Itabira-
Coronel Fabriciano, Lellis Lara, and 18 priests of the
dioceses where the brothers have been working.
The front pews were reserved for the thirteen brothers who
were present. Singing was provided by a choir which was
assembled for the occasion from the personnel of Padre
Eustáquio College, conducted by Brother Cristino Gemen.
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The crowded parish church of Padre Eustáquio.
Appreciation
In his homily the Cardinal made it clear how the brothers
are involved in the various pastoral areas where the
church needs them most. That way they realize the CMM
charism of ‘Brotherhood and Mercy’. He was Auxiliary
Bishop of Belo Horizonte when the brothers arrived
there in 1960. The archbishop emeritus expressed his
joy, appreciation and gratitude, on behalf also of the
archdiocese.
Bishop Lellis Lara did not miss the opportunity to say
something on behalf of the Diocese of Itabira-Coronel
Fabriciano, where the brothers have dedicated themselves
in particular to ‘Cidade do Menor’ (Children’s City).
During the celebration pupils of Padre Eustáquio College
presented the brothers with a small token of appreciation.