Visiting a seniors home, a zoo and making a lot of new friends

At the Zoo including pilgrims from Brazil, Tobago, Trinidad and Canada.  

After starting the day in Mass, the group of visitors which consisted of our Canadian group (and one friend from the country of Tobago), were broken up into three prayer groups. In my group, we visited a seniors residence named Lar de Paz (which is Brazilian for Place of Heaven), we sang songs, heard their stories and prayed with them. What I found strikingly prominent in Brazil is the amount of friendliness and love that is shown to all of us. This was also seen during our visit to the senior home. We were greeted with hugs, kisses, smiles and handshakes. I am reminded today that like the Brazilians, I must keep an open heart. The parishioners here are so generous and kind. I am very blessed to be with such a warm community! 

We also visited the Guarulhos Zoo! From a lion (and his lioness), ostriches, and snapping turtles, we saw them all today during our visit.  When we passed the otter, there were many "ooohs" and "so cutes," but humourously we all agreed that the otter couple at the Vancouver Aquarium can´t be beat!  

Signing off, Stephanie Nguyen and the IC Delta Pilgrims!  

Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Parish´s dining hall. We have most of our meals here.