South American Division

In Uruguay, Adventist campaign mobilizes communities in defense of elderly

On August 22, more than 50 events were held as part of the "Enough Silence" campaign.

Uruguay

Aline Alberti, South American Division, and ANN
People of different ages participated in the "Enough of Silence" activities, strengthening dialogue and raising awareness about the care of older adults.

People of different ages participated in the "Enough of Silence" activities, strengthening dialogue and raising awareness about the care of older adults.

In various parts of Uruguay, churches, students, and volunteers carried out activities to raise awareness of violence and abuse against the elderly. On August 22, more than 50 events were held as part of the "Enough Silence" campaign.

The activities took place in the South American Division. In Uruguay, the message was taken to churches, schools, public spaces, and communities.

Students participate in awareness activities about violence against older people. Photo: Courtesy of the South American Division

Awareness walks, fairs, talks with professionals, visits to nursing homes, distribution of the magazine Basta de Silencio (Enough of Silence), and fraternity meetings were some of the actions carried out.

In addition to raising awareness about elder abuse, these initiatives offered an opportunity to connect with the community.

Seniors participated in a day of fellowship and reflection alongside Adventist students. Photo: Courtesy of the South American Division

Students from the Montevideo Adventist High School (Liceo Adventista de Montevideo, LAM) participated in workshops on elder abuse held at the Prado and Las Acacias schools.

The workshops aimed to help children and teenagers reflect on respect, care, and appreciation for older people, showing that preventing violence begins in everyday relationships and within the family.

Senior citizens participate in an afternoon tea organized by the Curva de Maroñas Adventist Church. Photo: Everton Gonçalves

In Curva de Maroñas, the local Adventist Church organized an afternoon tea for senior citizens, with 12 residents participating. The gathering provided an opportunity to talk, share, and strengthen bonds.

In Young, 20 non-Adventist seniors participated in a day that included a talk on elder abuse, biblical reflection, games, testimonies, and refreshments. At the end, the seniors received copies of the magazine Basta de Silencio and missionary books.

Photo: Courtesy of the South American Division

In Chuy, the message took to the streets. Volunteers visited businesses to distribute the magazine Basta de Silencio and, in the central plaza, conducted blood pressure and weight checks while sharing information on the care and protection of the elderly.

The activity also continued outside of public spaces. Volunteers visited elderly adults who were ill, providing companionship and care to people in more vulnerable situations.

Volunteers carry out health promotion and awareness activities in Chuy. Photo: Courtesy of the South American Division

During the campaign, three grandchildren visited their grandmother, Nora, sharing a moment with her, listening to her, and letting her know she wasn't alone.

Nora with her grandchildren during a family visit. Photo: Courtesy of the South American Division

Representatives said initiatives like these help the Adventist Church connect with the local community. By sharing with neighbors, students, and people outside the church, bonds are forged, creating opportunities to discuss faith not only through words but also through service and addressing individual needs.

The original article was published on the South American Division Spanish news site.

Aline Alberti, South American Division, and ANN

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