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Casa do Homem de Nazaré: 50 Years of Hope and Service in Belo Horizonte
Alfonso José Berger, SVD
Located at 425A Boninas Street, the CHN currently provides after-school activities for 92 children and adolescents from the community. Depending on their school schedule, participants receive breakfast, lunch, and snacks, along with a wide range of educational, artistic, and spiritual programs.
The mission of the institution is clear: to strengthen the protection, education, and socialization of minors and their low-income families through socio-educational, artistic, sports, and spiritual activities.
Among its initiatives are human and spiritual formation, art workshops, capoeira, theater, computer studies, and academic support through “knowledge hour” and “homework assistance.” A team of 10 staff members coordinates these activities. The children also participate in sports on nearby courts and recreational outings, such as the traditional annual visit to Arnaldo Janssen School, where they enjoy sports fields and a swimming pool.
The CHN’s work also extends to families. Monthly meetings are held with parents and guardians, both for training and evaluation. One of the most anticipated moments is the CHN Family Festival, held in May, which fosters integration between parents, children, and educators. Special celebrations are also organized during Lent, Holy Week, the Month of the Bible, Advent, and Christmas.
The Annual General Assembly brings together the institution’s 19 members to present activity reports, financial statements, and to renew part of the board every two years. According to the statutes, the president and vice president are always Divine Word Missionaries (SVD) from the BRN Province, appointed by the Provincial Superior and ratified by the assembly. Currently, the president is Bro. Alfonso J. Berger and the vice president is Fr. Bernadinus T. Asmon.
The celebration of the CHN’s 50th anniversary was a time to thank God for the vision of Fr. Cornélio Kila, SVD, and for all the benefactors who have supported this mission throughout the years. Today, the institution counts on 85 local benefactors, as well as resources from members, rentals, deposits, donations, and public and private entities.
Trusting in God and the solidarity of many, CHN reaffirms its commitment to continue offering welcome and hope to children, adolescents, and families in vulnerable situations.
