Alfredo, always with us

16th April marked six months since the departure of our beloved Alfredo Mires; however, when we speak of Alfredo, we do not think of death, but of the life that he shared with us and that he left behind in each of the steps he took through the rural communities. Therefore, if it is a question of remembering, we prefer to remember him alive, with his laughter and advice, with his brilliant ideas and the new projects for our beloved Network of Rural Libraries.

Thinking about how to thank him also for all his legacy, we decided to meet that Sunday 16th April at 6 a.m., as he would have liked - for Alfredo always got up early to make the most of each day and enjoy the sunrise - and dedicate a prayer to him, according to the customs of our villages. Thus, our brother Antero Vásquez, from Pújupe Alto, in Bambamarca, recited his heartfelt prayers also recalling the Passion of Christ, it had been a long time since we had heard such prayers. Don Antero was joined by two great friends: Father Panchito, as we affectionately call him, and Marco. In addition, there was no lack of songs dedicated by our friend Noemí.

In this celebration, the paguito (offering) to the earth could not be missing, as it is one of his many legacies and commissions to be fulfilled.

After this morning prayer, we shared together, as a family, the delicious green broth that Alfredo also enjoyed, with his canchita (roasted corn) and quesillo (soft cheese).

Thank you, Alfredo, for bringing us together around prayer, the table, reading and work.