Father Minte, among the Macuxi and Wapichana peoples of Brazil

On November 11, I officially began my first mission as a priest in the far north of Brazil, in the region bordering Venezuela. I was sent to serve the Macuxi and Wapichana indigenous peoples in the state of Roraima. They are the first nations of this land, with their own history, language, culture, and spirituality. They are communities deeply connected to the land, family, and communal life. Many are Catholic and have journeyed together with the Church for decades, especially through a missionary presence committed to faith and the defense of indigenous dignity.

Our mission encompasses more than 20 communities, many located in remote and hard-to-reach areas. Together with two confreres — Fr. Deivith Harly Zanioli Gonçalves and Fr. Keyali Teddy Njaya — we provide pastoral care, celebrate the sacraments, visit families, accompany youth, and offer practical support whenever needed.

Missionary work among indigenous peoples is a priority for the Comboni Missionaries in Brazil, particularly in the Diocese of Roraima, whose capital is Boa Vista. The local Church has a longstanding commitment to defending life, culture and the rights of indigenous peoples.

We recognize that indigenous communities in Brazil face significant challenges, especially regarding the protection of their territories, as reflected in recent debates surrounding the so-called Marco Temporal (Temporal Framework). In response, our missionary presence strives to be a sign of closeness, attentive listening, justice, and hope.

I feel deeply encouraged and renewed in this mission. I have been welcomed with warmth and simplicity. I learn greatly from the faith, resilience, and communal strength of these peoples. It is a great grace to begin my priestly ministry walking alongside them.

I ask you to pray for me and for all these communities. I also carry each of you in my prayers. As they say in Macuxi: Tarenkon mîîrî pîî, May God bless you.

With missionary gratitude and fraternal affection,
Fr. Minte Simeneh Lemessa
Ethiopian Comboni missionary in Brazil