Gregorio Joeright

The goal of the American Franciscans has always been to work ourselves out of a job. Simply put, we want to have the people of Brazil take over the Catholic Missions and be viable without American Friars in charge. Since 1979 I have lived, ministered and loved the people of the Amazonian region of northern Brazil. So much has changed during my time of ministry in Brazil. Quality of life has improved dramatically, but the poor and marginalized indigenous peoples are the last to feel improvements. We are so close now. We have ___ Brazilian Friars and ____ Brothers in formation. As I look toward the end of my time in mission work in the coming years I am confident they will be able to continue the work and meet the needs of the people, with little support, mostly financial from their American brothers and sisters.

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