I flew from Dorval airport yesterday morning for Mexico City, for the start of my first trip to Latin America. The flight was Air Canada, and I got lucky — the plane was only half full, meaning that I got a whole 3-seat bench to myself. Not that it changed all that much, as all I did was sleep…
It was clear to me that God was on my side when, as I was waiting in line for Mexican customs, I bumped into a fellow with a black clerical shirt and a pectoral cross — it was the bishop of Chalatenango in El Salvador! I introduced myself, and mentioned I was from Montreal — was I ever surprised to discover that he had just visited our fair city recently. The line was quite long, so we had a chance to have a nice chat, and he gave me his blessing for my month in Mexico. What a great way to start the trip.
A driver was waiting for me at the airport, so the trip to Cuernavaca was very smooth, apart from one problem — he had no idea where the church was where I would be living, and of course neither did I. But God bless technology, because I was able to use my cell to call Father Marco Guzman in Montreal (who had once served in Cuernavaca) and he gave the necessary directions.
The parish where I am staying is responsible for several chapels, and the rectory is actually found in one of those chapels, the chapel of Our Lady of Guadeloupe. I was met by Father Roberto Dirus, my host here in Cuernavaca. After a (very) brief period of settling in, Fr. Roberto took me on a whirlwind tour of his parish, including some pastoral activity on his part (a workplace blessing and a First Friday mass). I think I’ve already had enough dinner invitations to feed me for my whole month here.
And speaking of dinner, we went out for food last night at a local restaurant, along with members of a youth group founded by Padre Roberto. Some spoke excellent English, but with others I’ve already had to practise my Spanish. This is particularly difficult, given that I don’t actually have any yet, but I’ve discovered that with my English, French and Italian I can actually pick up quite a bit (as long as people speak slow enough).
I’m writing this from Padre Roberto’s room, where he has a high-speed Internet connection. Check back for updates every so often! Adios!