From April 19th to 22nd, the brothers of the Province of Brazil and the Region of Paraguay met in assembly at the Retiro das Rosas (Salesians), in Cachoeira do Campo, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais. Present were all the brothers from Brazil (in good health) and Gustavo van Humbeeck (regional treasurer) and Vitor Borges, residents of Paraguay. 

This was the first time since the 2021 elections that the provincial government was able to come together because of the pandemic. 

These were fruitful days of prayer, sharing, meetings, and joy. The main themes were Initial Formation and the challenges of the growing number of young people with vocations and their accompaniment. The treasurers of the Province and the Region presented the accounts for 2021. 

The Vice-Postulator also presented the accounts and a report on activities related to the Canonization process of Father Eustáquio. An afternoon was dedicated to studying the historical and ecclesial circumstances of the martyrs of the Congregation who have been present since the foundation of the Sacred Hearts, in particular the martyrs of Paris. Another relevant topic was the life of local communities, their ability to sustain themselves financially, community life, and missionary challenges after the pandemic in parish pastoral work and social works. 

The assembly listened with enthusiasm to the accounts of the new presence – in communion with our sisters – in parishes located in areas of extreme economic and pastoral need. At the end, announcements were made regarding upcoming ordinations to the priesthood and diaconate. During an afternoon, the assembly was joined by Brazilian postulants and pre-novices. A great celebration of community life and hope during the Easter octave.