News Item: Voluntarism, service celebrated in Brazil
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From LDS Church News
January 4, 2003
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, represented by its service organization, "Helping Hands," (Maos Que Ajudam) was recognized as one of the most important volunteer organizations in Brazil at a recent meeting of 12 leaders of the main religious denominations in the country.
The gathering was organized by the Achievement Institute of Brazilian Volunteers, "Instituto Faca Parte Brazil Voluntario," and held Nov. 9, 2002. Among those attending were such leaders as: Father Jose Eduardo, Catholic; Sheik Sufi Ralveti Jerrahi, Muslim; Rabin Henri Sobel, Sao Paulo Jewish Congregation, and others.
Representing the Church was President Edson de Marques, Brazil S‹o Paulo East Mission, who said: "This event makes more and more people motivated, and also gives them a desire to help in the next day of service."
"The event aims to honor and motivate the youth social work all over Brazil," explained Milœ Villela, president of the volunteer institute.
Outside the gymnasium, an exposition of Helping Hands was organized and all visitors were able to receive information about this program, and at the same time be aware that they could also be a volunteer. Mr. Villela also visited the exposition.
The event had pivotal moments. One was when the religious leaders and representatives held hands and gave their support to volunteer work.
Besides allowing the exchange of experiences in social projects, the event included musical shows with famous singers and bands. Representing the Church and Helping Hands were singing partners Rinaldo and Liriel. Well known in Brazil, Liriel is a member of the Church. (See Church News, Dec. 21, 2002.)
Other Church members performing were 30 children and almost 50 missionaries. Guina Martins, one of the event organizers, was very impressed with the quality of the performances and said: "Congratulations to the Helping Hands volunteers of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. You made the difference on the show. The children were wonderful and Liriel was gorgeous. You were the cream of the crop."
The event was widely covered by the media, and in the end leaders were excited and confidant that more volunteer action would be accomplished all over Brazil.
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