Paróquia do Cristo Redentor

In the heart of São Paulo, Paróquia do Cristo Redentor stands as a testament to faith and community. Let’s step back in time to 1968. Imagine the vibrant energy as the Paróquia Cristo Ressuscitado da Cidade A. E. Carvalho is proclaimed. This momentous occasion took place on August 17th. Bishop auxiliar Dom Bruno Maldaner presided over the ceremony, reading the decree signed by Cardinal Agnelo Rossi. The decree officially established Paróquia do Cristo Redentor, carving its territory from the existing Paróquia Sant’Ana de Itaquera. The original chapel of Nossa Senhora Aparecida became part of this new parish. Paróquia do Cristo Redentor’s history is intertwined with the dedication of its priests. Father Santigo Lumbreras, appointed in 1968, served until 1973. He then returned to his native Chile during the tumultuous period of the Pinochet regime. From 1973 to 1977, the Belgian Father Marcos Thyssen brought his infectious good humor to the parish, focusing on catechism. Father Cláudio Griveau’s tenure was brief, from 1978 to 1980. “Pe. Pepe,” Father José Fernandez Alcantara, served from 1980 to 1990. He earned the nickname “Padre Trabalhador” for his tireless work ethic, often taking on manual tasks himself. Father Elias Pereira de Melo, from 1991 to 2002, was deeply loved by the community. He fostered various groups and initiatives, including health ministry, senior groups, and youth movements. He also envisioned and initiated the construction of the parish’s first event hall and catechism classrooms. Sadly, he passed away in 2002 after battling cancer. Father José Antonio da Silva, despite a short time at the parish, began the demolition of the old church building. He also established the foundation for the new church and formed a council to oversee its construction. Father Josmar Santos Gavronski (2002-2005) encouraged youth engagement, notably through the “Carnaval com Cristo,” inspired by Cristoteca, a Catholic dance event. Father Jalmir Matias de Oliveira, serving from 2005 onwards, continued the construction of the new church, fostering unity through the creation of parish and community assemblies. He also revived street groups, youth groups, and theater activities. Paróquia do Cristo Redentor has always been a place of growth, both spiritual and physical. Its history is etched in the efforts of its leaders and the devotion of its community.