This summer, Portugal was scourged with wildfires. leaving behind a trail of destruction and causing 64 deaths, the wildfire that broke out in Pedrógão Grande, a municipality in the centre of the country, was the worst prequel to what was to follow. As soon as the real extent of the tragedy became clear, many students and young professionals close to the Jesuits in Portugal, rushed there to help the local people and the firemen, providing the needed assistance and logistical support. A month later, at the end of July, Missão Aqui e Agora (Mission for here and now) was born thanks to the initiative of two of the volunteers, who rapidly mobilized other young Catholics willing to bring some hope and joy to a place devastated by pain and death.

For two weeks, volunteers stayed in Castanheira de Pêra, one of the hard-hot districts, helping out Médicins du Monde, responsible for coordinating aid on the ground. In all, there were some 40 people aged 18 to 30 and coming from every corner of the country. Although many of them had never met before, they were united in their desire to do whatever was needed: they distributed food, clothes, wood and other essential goods; removed debris from burnt houses; planted vegetable seeds in gardens; visited and comforted those feeling lonely. All this, while bringing along their joy.

To keep the team of young volunteers going for weeks, a big spiritual and emotional support was put at their disposal. Several Jesuits were also there, accompanying and helping alongside volunteers. Father Provincial José Frazão Correia was one of those who witnessed the mission first-hand . He was deeply touched by the inner freedom with which volunteers decided to leave everything behind to “make the Lord’s presence felt in the midst of such desolation”. Thanks to a local parish priest, daily mass was celebrated outdoors with the community, enriching the experience of missionary work.

Already a month has gone by since the tragedy and some have paid a second visit, given the huge manpower needed to rebuild the place. However, the main purpose of their visit stems from their need to be among locals as they contribute to the reconstruction process. They not do this out of their own initiative, but remain strongly attached to the cause by bringing with them more friends.

We hope that many more keep returning!