"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." This is the biblical text of Matthew 11:28 (NIV), which health professionals found on the back cover of books they received as a gift on Sunday, March 28, at the Pronto Atendimento de Itapoá, on the northern coast of Santa Catarina. The initiative was for young people from the city's Seventh-day Adventist Church.

The text of the Bible chosen by the volunteers took into consideration the tiring and exhausting routine many health professionals have faced in combating the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition to the biblical excerpt, written by hand in the literature, the young people put up different dedications with words of encouragement and thanks. Among the works distributed was the book A Maior Esperança, by pastors Luís Gonçalves and Diogo Cavalcante.

Emotion

In a small group to guarantee social distancing, the volunteers went to the reception desk to deliver the gifts and say words of thanks, encouragement, and hope. Upon receiving the gifts, the health teams rejoiced and were touched by the gesture of affection.

Elivelto Kisner, one of the organizers of the action, was among the young people who witnessed the reaction and receptivity of the professionals in the health unit. “Just seeing their happiness made us very happy. It was a simple gesture, but it made a lot of difference for them. Our city is small, and there is a great demand for sick people. And we are seeing the effort they are making”, recognizes Kisner.

Recognition and Admiration 

Through a social network, the Health Secretary of Itapoá, Janayna Gomes praised the work of young people and thanked them. “Beloved, you are the salt of the earth and the light of the world! Loving gestures give us the strength to continue this battle. Together we will win!”

In order for the surprise to become even more special for the public served by the solidarity gesture, the young people packed the books in gift packages. According to Kisner, the group intends to carry out new social actions in the coming weekends with the aim of helping the community.

This article was originally published on the South American Division’s Portuguese news site