In 1996 a small seed of faith was planted. It blossomed into the Centro Católico de Evangelização Shalom Missão Santo Amaro. This wasn’t just any church. This was the first Shalom mission in the Southeast region of Brazil.
The Centro Católico de Evangelização Shalom Missão Santo Amaro holds a special place in the heart of São Paulo. It represents the expansion of the Shalom Community’s unique charism. Its arrival was a significant moment for the Diocese of Santo Amaro. It marked the beginning of a new chapter in the city’s spiritual landscape.
The story began with a conversation. A seminary student mentioned Bishop Dom Fernando Antònio Figueiredo’s interest in the Shalom Community. Celeste Ribas a Shalom member shared this with the founder Moysés Azevedo. A meeting ensued. Dom Fernando expressed his desire for a Shalom mission in his diocese. Celeste simply replied “Just ask”. The bishop’s request was soon granted.
The early days were challenging. Finding a suitable location was only the first hurdle. Securing furnishings and supplies for the mission’s new home was difficult. The first missionaries were temporarily housed by Padre Ângelo Moroni. They resided at Recanto Nossa Senhora de Lourdes a considerable distance away.
Meanwhile in Guarulhos Celeste and a group of young people began to pray together. They sought God’s will for their lives. Their meetings took place at Paróquia São Pedro Apóstolo. Padre José Simões generously allowed the group to use the chapel. Inspired by Celeste’s experiences they were drawn to the Shalom Community’s way of life.
In 1997 a group of these young people travelled to Fortaleza for a retreat. There they solidified their commitment to the Shalom charism. Some started the process of becoming members of the Shalom Community. In February 1997 the first Shalom mission in São Paulo opened its doors. The Casa de Retiros in Parelheiros became the Casa Contemplativa São José.
On May 13 1997 a celebratory Mass was held. Dom Fernando Figueiredo presided. The arrival of the first Shalom mission in the Southeast was officially celebrated. The journey of the Centro Católico de Evangelização Shalom Missão Santo Amaro was just beginning. It’s a testament to the power of faith perseverance and the unwavering support of the community. It is a story of growth challenges and unwavering devotion. A story that continues to unfold.