Comunidade São Jorge

Amidst the vibrant energy of Duque de Caxias, the Comunidade São Jorge stands as a testament to faith and community. The story of Comunidade São Jorge begins in November 1984. A small group of residents felt a need. They wanted a place to gather, share joys and sorrows, and celebrate their faith. This initial group, part of the Comunidade São João Batista, typically held their meetings in homes. One day, during a prayer meeting at the home of Mr. Brás Rafael and his wife Geralda, someone suggested building a small church. The idea took root and blossomed. Mr. Valmir Paim from São João Batista helped bring the proposal to the Paróquia de Nossa Senhora da Conceição em Conceição da Barra. The construction of a new Catholic community was approved. The founders of Comunidade São Jorge, filled with faith and a desire to spread the Gospel, began their work. Among them were Mr. and Mrs. Rafael, Mr. Thiago da Conceição and his wife Maria Lourdes, Mr. José David Neto and his wife Lindaura Delírio, and several others. With no church building yet, services were held in the homes of the faithful. The first mass, celebrated by Father Derli Casali around 1985, took place under a jackfruit tree at Mr. Neto’s home. Soon after, services moved to land donated by Mr. Thiago da Conceição on Rua Carlos Lindemberg. There, the community built a simple shelter from rubble and palm thatch. The rainy season brought challenges. The thatch roof often failed to hold back the downpours, forcing services back into homes. By 1987, Mr. Thiago da Conceição, now the chapel’s coordinator, led the effort to replace the thatch with tile. The community unanimously named the chapel São Jorge, after the saint whose image, donated by Mr. Neto, graced its interior. Over time, the Comunidade São Jorge grew. New families moved to the area, adding their energy and devotion to the burgeoning community. Despite financial hardships, the community remained vibrant, hosting festivals and auctions to fund the construction of a larger church. This new church is the one that stands today. The community later became part of the Paróquia de Nossa Senhora de Fátima in Pedro Canário. Around 2007, a period of discouragement settled over the community. However, a dedicated group kept the spirit of São Jorge alive, ensuring regular Sunday services. During a mission year focused on discipleship, the community received crucial support from the Comunidade São José de Sayonara and the sisters of the Apostolado Paroquial. This sparked a revival of the catechism, liturgy, and sacraments. Father Aldir Roque Loss guided the formation of a new leadership council, breathing fresh life into Comunidade São Jorge. From its humble beginnings under a jackfruit tree to its current church, the Comunidade São Jorge in Duque de Caxias remains a powerful symbol of faith, perseverance, and community.