Every Day is a Party in Brazil

As with many Latin American cultures, "on time" is a relative term in Brazil. Following Mass last evening, we were instructed to arrive at the parish this morning at 7:45. The last of us arrived around 8:30. No worries. 

From the parish we traveled to the city park and made our way to a large pavilion already arranged for Holy Mass we were among the first placing us at the very front of a crowd that would eventually number around ten thousand. The groups just kept coming and coming and coming. Flags from Brazil, the USA, France, Venezuela, Colombia, and Angola were soon bouncing and swaying as a bone shaking bass beat sounded through the speakers. For about two hours the whole international group sang and danced and shouted. Small groups formed here and there as young Brazilian men kicked their soccer balls around. Angolans danced in tight circles. Americans jumped up and down. Amanda Julian was interviewed by a local television station. Then, the music from the stage ceased and a local brass band played traditional samba music.  The locals danced. Johnny and Marianne Hofer made a scene trying to do the same. 

Once it was finally time for Mass, nearly 100 priests vested to concelebrate. The Cardinal from Bogota seemed overwhelmed by the sheer unadulterated noise. The homilist reminded us that we are all called to be missionaries, in spite of our sins. After Mass the party recommended. The brass band played again, and upon finishing MK Amiotte asked the trumpeter to take a photo with her. She remarked that she also played the trumpet. He quickly insisted that she play a song. Her attempts to demure were rebuffed, so she played the only song she knew from memory, "The Star Spangled Banner". Before she knew it the whole Brazilian Band was playing our national anthem.  

In each of these instances, I am reminded of St. Paul's teaching, "In Christ there is no gentile or Jew, Freeman or slave, woman or man."  We are indeed one - one baptism, one Lord, one Faith, one God. I can't imagine why everyone doesn't want to be Catholic. 

Thoughts From the Pilgrims:

Mary Amiotte: We have been overwhelmed by the love and hospitality of the people here!

Logan Pochop: this is a very different place, but it is also an exciting place!

Theresa Kinyon: I love the people of Brazil! We have been shown the love of Christ in the most beautiful way! We couldn't feel more at home!

Marianne Hofer: Brazil has been so good! They are a partying people much like my own family! It has been a great pilgrimage so far and know of my prayers for you back home. Pray for us as well. Obrigada

There will be photos later when I get back to the apartment where I am staying.