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Brazil Province
Beginnings
In 1938, five Sisters sailed from the USA for Brazil, where we would minister initially to immigrants who were fleeing Lithuania and the political chaos that preceded World War II. In those early years and continuing through today, we have strong financial and other support from those with a Lithuanian heritage. ( Pictured Left: In 1968, Sisters M. Beatrice Siratavic and Antonia Ferreira teach reading to children at a small rural school in Paiol Velho, Brazil.) We have also been blessed with the added support of prayers and donations from a diverse group of benefactors throughout Brazil, the USA and other places with which we are enabled to answer God’s call .
Brazil Today Today, our Brazil Province
has over 60 Sisters involved in pastoral ministry, education,
formation of catechists, preparation of liturgical services, the
promotion of vocations and in healthcare, daycare There are 3 schools with over 3,500
students and two social centers. We currently have 15 women in
formation. We also have a maternity hospital. We have seen the infant
mortality rate decrease 38% One especially important effort we’ve had in Brazil was converting our former novitiate building in Vila Alpina into the St. Clare and St. Francis Social Center. This was done in an effort to prevent young children from becoming “street children.” In this Center, children can come together after school to study, learn professional skills and recreate with their peers. It is a safe haven for them until their parents come home after work and since 1993, numerous children have come through the doors.
Our Lady of Providence Province in Brazil: www.irfranprovdeus.org.br (Portuguese)
For more information about Brazil: USA: 412-885-7215 or e-mail: info@osfprov.org .
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and other social
services and one sister is even a medical doctor and surgeon.
from 1990 to 24 deaths per 1000 births,
which is still a great challenge.