June Dean's Message

"There are tanks in the city streets Dona Lora."  Senhor Lopez stood by the console. I was in the middle of a recital on the chapel Allen at the Instituto Metodista, our deaconess’ training school on the outskirts of São Paulo.

"Janio Quadros has resigned," he continued. "The country is going into a state of siege. We have to get you on a plane back to Rio before they close the airport." Political conflict had resulted in the resignation of Brazil’s president. Finishing the program, I was whisked away to the airport, fortunately situated between the school and the city center. I was on the last plane out before all flights were cancelled.

Arriving in Rio, soldiers carrying assault rifles stood at every pillar and in every door. More frightening still was the silence. The normally voluble Brazilians were silent; uttering the wrong words could result in arrest and possible disappearance. Arriving at Colégio Bennett after an eerie, silent taxi ride, I found the school in lockdown.

Now, I take a new 'leaving'; my term as your Dean ends in June. These have been interesting and sometimes challenging days. Thank you all for giving me the opportunity to serve you.

Welcome your new Dean, David Lepse.