Lucienne arrived in Chile from Belgium in 1979 as a missionary in the community of the Congregation in Carmen, (Chillan). Two years later, the Bishop of Chillan asked her to take charge of a home for vulnerable children. This was the origin of Hogar Esperanza, (Home of Hope) which has for 39 years relied on the generous and tireless missionary commitment of our sister Lucienne
Currently the Home has 45 infants and children and is run by a Foundation of the Diocese of Chillan, made up of lay people.
At almost 80 years of age, with frail health to continue to carry out the demanding mission, Lucienne, after a time of reflection has taken the difficult decision to leave the mission in Chile, and to return to Belgium, her country of origin.
Lucienne leaves Chile at the end of August, and her words reflect a grateful missionary heart, "I am grateful for the love I received and shared, because I was able to do something for the poorest people, those who have nothing".
The Sisters of Chile, the Church of Chillan and so many families, young people from the area of Ñuble, thank Lucienne for her simple and persevering presence during these years, her untiring missionary zeal to do good for so many poor people in our villages.
In the photo, Lucienne in the house of "Hogar Esperanza" accompanied by the current Bishop of Chillen, Sergio Pérez de Arce, sscc.
08/28/2020