Discover the solidarity apostolate of CLM Chile at the Las Rosas Foundation
In Santiago, Chile, the Christian Life Movement (CLM) has found a space in which solidarity and love for others become concrete. Every month, the members of the MVC meet to visit the residents of the Nuestra Señora de Las Rosas home, bringing with them not only their time and effort, but also a deep affection.
Mijailo with a resident of the Las Rosas Foundation.
The home where the CLM volunteers is part of Fundación Las Rosas, the main network of long-stay homes for seniors, with 28 homes and around 2,200 residents throughout Chile.
Our brother Mijailo Bokan, one of the coordinators of this solidarity apostolate, describes the experience as a unique opportunity to connect and grow spiritually.
“Volunteering involves visiting the home at least once a month, where most of the residents are women. People of all ages take part, from young people to entire families who bring their children. It is an inclusive and enriching apostolate,” Mijailo tells us.
A day of volunteering with CLM Chile
A typical day at the Las Rosas Foundation begins with the arrival at the home and a warm greeting to the residents. Then the volunteers pray the Rosary with them. They take them to meet Jesus in the Eucharist, which is a very special moment. “Not all of them can attend, but we transport those who we can in their wheelchairs,” explains Mijailo.
After Mass, volunteers escort residents to the dining room for lunch. “During the meal, we talk to them, listen to how they have been and help them eat if necessary, all in coordination with the home assistants,” she added.
Afternoon activities vary from crafts to bingo games, and special celebrations like Mother’s Day or Christmas. “We’ve made rosaries, painted, and brought word searches to stimulate them. We always try to vary the activities to keep them interested and active,” Mijailo tells us.
Volunteering that “makes us grow spiritually”
The impact of this apostolate is profound, both for volunteers and residents. “We become sensitive to the loneliness and abandonment that some residents may feel, we learn from their wisdom and put our talents at the service of those who need it most,” Mijailo shares.
“Spiritually, it makes us grow a lot and it also makes us question old age and dependency. Having someone who cares about them and is interested in their life is invaluable. It nourishes them a lot to talk to others, to have someone who brightens their day.”
María Fernanda with a resident of the Las Rosas Foundation.
For her part, María Fernanda Ruiz-Tagle, also coordinator of the project, tells us about her experience: “My motivation to be part of the solidarity apostolate at the Las Rosas Foundation comes from my desire to live Christian charity and serve those most in need, following the example of Christ. So far, the experience has been deeply rewarding.”
“We have strengthened the community among CLM members and brought hope and comfort to those who need it most. It is an experience of great love, in which we live an experience of giving and receiving.”
Martín Castro, another volunteer, adds: “I was motivated to know that we were going to a place where I had attended school since I was a child. It is our responsibility to accompany, learn from and help the elderly people of the Las Rosas Foundation. It has been a tremendously enriching experience.”
Martín Castro with a resident of the Las Rosas Foundation.
On each visit, the CLM in Chile not only brings activities and companionship, but also builds a bridge of love and solidarity, showing residents that they are not alone and that they are valued. This work is a living reflection of the Christian spirit that the CLM promotes, an example of how service and faith can transform lives.
If you are in Santiago de Chile and want to know more about upcoming activities, follow this Instagram account.