“It was very inspiring to see how the young people and members of San Francisco Solano Parish dedicate part of their vacations each year to bringing the Good News of Jesus to every home in the 150 Hectáreas neighborhood. There, a new community—Santa María—is beginning to grow, and this was the third consecutive summer mission carried out in the same place.

The mission began with a three-day youth camp in Chijra (January 3–5) under the theme: “Lord, to whom shall we go?” (Jn 6:68). More than one hundred young people participated. The goal of this gathering was to help them experience a personal encounter with God, open spaces for vocational discernment, and at the same time prepare for the mission. The grace of this preparation began to bear fruit from the very first day.

We began with great joy with the opening Mass celebrated by the parish priest, Fr. Juan Meresoa, accompanied by confreres from the Jujuy district and Fr. Juan Stach, SVD, who joined us at the site of the future Santa María Chapel.

The days were intense and filled with grace. Daily activities included family visits, sharing the Word of God and prayer, house blessings, and games with children and youth in the Plaza de los Indios. Each day concluded with the celebration of the Eucharist together with the community.

Personally, what touched us most—Francis and Augustin, as Angolans—was the openness and warmth with which we were welcomed in every home. Each encounter reminded us of the strength of faith and the importance of building community. This experience deeply marked us. God gives us the opportunity to set aside our own concerns and place ourselves at His service. In this way, we can love our neighbors as He asks us to do.

We were also moved by the enthusiasm and availability of the young people and pastoral workers of the parish, who offered their gifts and talents to make the mission possible. Their spirit of service ignited our hearts.

It is difficult to fully describe what we experienced during those days. The community still does not yet have a church or chapel. They only have a piece of land belonging to the diocese, located in front of the Plaza de los Indios. However, the people’s energy and dream are already in motion. The future construction of the Santa María Chapel will become a true sign of hope for the community and the neighborhood.

Many residents expressed their joy at the possibility of having a place of their own where they can gather, celebrate, and grow together in faith. Several even offered to help enthusiastically with the construction work, which filled us with gratitude and admiration.

We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to participate in this mission, which was also a learning experience for us. We remain ready to continue accompanying the community—especially the youth—on this path of building community together.”

Source: Boletín de los Misioneros del Verbo Divino, Argentina South Province, February–March 2026, No. 37.