I first read about Boca da Valeria, Brazil, in 2022. This indigenous community of about 100 people 850 miles up the Amazon River is arguably the smallest port of call in the world. In a good year, three or four ships may visit allowing the most adventurous passengers to embark a river boat and disembark on a dirt path that leads to wooden houses perched on stilts most bearing stains of the last high-water mark. During the rainy season, the Amazon River can rise 30 feet or more. The article I read described how the pandemic had devastated the community cutting of all contact to the outside world.

One might ask: “Why not just leave?”

Fair question.

Chongae would offer a far better answer than me in that her childhood town is gone either destroyed by the Korean War or eliminated because of post war construction. When she visits Korea, there is no “home” to see any longer. I understand. Although the residents of Boca da Valeria travel 20 miles up the river for supplies, including gasoline to fuel the community generator that is used for special occasions, this is their home. This is the life their ancestors lived for thousands of years before the Europeans arrived at the start of the 16th century. (minus the generator)

Boca da Valeria has been on my heart since reading that article. I was reminded of the townships of South Africa that I visited last year where the community is so cut off from resources that the only way to help is to be there. Knowing that we would visit I knew that our foundation could help.

Like most all rural communities I have visited around the world the first thing residents do is build a place to worship and a school for their children. Boca da Valeria is no exception. Sao Paulo Church (St. Paul) is unembellished. The simplest (yet beautiful) white altar is adorned with a small statue of Paul the Apostle holding the New Testament and a sword which is symbolic of his martyrdom. No pews only white plastic chairs to sit on. The schoolhouse is virtually one room where we were able to meet with the headmaster to hand deliver our contribution that will provide needed supplies for the school year.

In appreciation, some of the school age children gathered and wanted to share with me their pets. No paraquets in cages here, all free range. (and one turtle)

As I looked back on Boca da Valeria as the sun was preparing to set over the Amazon River, I was reminded of one endearing truth for me. Every time I have ventured out in faith with the intention of bringing hope to a people in need it is always me that has left with the hope that I needed.

Thanks for traveling with us…