Though the end of the world did not come as the Mayans predicted (or most likely did not predict), indigenous peoples throughout the world continue to experience threats to their existence. Since Vatican II, the Catholic Church in Latin America has made a radical departure from much of its previous history and is now often one of the strongest voices for the dignity of these peoples.

Dom Pedro Casaldáliga, Bishop Emeritus of São Felix do Araguaia in Brazil, now 84 and suffering from Parkinson’s, has tirelessly worked alongside the Xavante people since 1968,  including aiding in their struggles to keep their land. In the past few months, with disputes over land ownership coming to a head and the Xavante likely on the verge of a major court victory, Dom Pedro has been receiving death threats from interests that stand to lose if there is a favorable outcome for the Xavante. Despite the support of the Brazilian government and the National Conference of Brazilian Bishops, he has been forced to go into hiding.

Dom Pedro’s efforts have been inspired by the poorest of the poor in his diocese, who have taught him what human dignity really is. Through prayer, Mary sustains him. The Mary he knows says “yes”, and in this obedience takes up a completely unknown, terrifying, and, ultimately joyful road. This Mary is full of life and hope, who can be our companion as we work for human dignity—for all people, including our indigenous brothers and sisters.  It was this Mary who provided him with the inspiration for this beautiful poem:

By Saying Your Name, Mary
-Pedro Casaldaliga

By saying your name, Mary,
We say that Poverty
Has drawn the attention of God’s eyes.

By saying your name, Mary,
We say that the Promise
Knows what a mother’s milk tastes like.

By saying your name, Mary,
We say that our flesh
Clothes the silence of the Word.

By saying your name, Mary,
We say that the Kingdom comes
Walking alongside History.

By saying your name, Mary
We say that we are with the Cross
And with the flames of the Spirit.

By saying your name, Mary,
We say that every name
Can be full of Grace.

By saying your name, Mary,
We say that every death
Can also be His Passion.

By saying your name, Mary,
We say that His All
Is the cause of Our Joy.