Fr. Andy Takach, OMI
A Missionary Oblate of Mary Immaculate
In early November, we received this encouraging note from our Superior General celebrating the 70th Anniversary of Fr. Andy’s first vows. Pictured to the left is a remembrance of the renewal of these vows at the community mass at the Crescent, on November 4th, the date of his first profession.
Fr. Andy’s ministry in Peru, as chronicled through his newsletters from 1979 to 1988, reflects a profound commitment to pastoral care, social justice, and community development amidst challenging socio-political and economic conditions. His journey began with cultural immersion and language acquisition, enduring the initial shock of transitioning into a new environment. Settling in Comas, Lima, he adapted to the local climate and customs, and engaged in excursions to historical sites like Cusco and Machu Picchu. Retreats and community meetings deepened his spiritual resolve.
Fr. Andy’s early experiences included navigating the complexities of jungle life in Aucayacu, where he encountered the realities of poverty, the influence of the cocaine industry, and the challenges of missionary outreach in an unfamiliar ecclesial environment and language. His vivid descriptions of river journeys, natural disasters, and community interactions underscore the resilience necessary to thrive in such an atmosphere. He highlighted the lack of infrastructure, the prevalence of theft, and the necessity of defensive driving, illustrating the daily hurdles faced by missionaries.
Language acquisition in Bolivia even with a competent school was not a breeze to master. Along with that immersion, he also needed to appreciate the local culture and history, gaining insights into the political instability and economic struggles of the region. His reflections on the educational system, health conditions, and social customs helped him to understand the broader Latin American context.
In Aucayacu, Fr. Andy’s ministry went beyond sharing the verbal and written gospel message to include health concerns, community development, and pastoral catechetical outreach. He collaborated with Dominican sisters and fellow Oblates, addressing health crises, promoting education, and fostering spiritual growth. His newsletters detailed the challenges of living conditions, insect infestations, and the emotional toll of witnessing widespread poverty and illness.
Here is a short tidbit from Aucayacu in 1981: “In late March, we just received a fourth sister who will be working with us this year. She is sister Rita, a Peruvian, who just finished her novitiate. She is a nurse and a catechist so we can use her both in the medical program and in our parish program. It will be good just to have another body here.
We just finished Holy Week and Easter with all their ceremonies. I must say that I appreciate these ceremonies more and more each year. Before Holy Week came Lent, and before Lent came Carnival time. The only form of “Carnival” that the people participate in here for the three weeks prior to Ash Wednesday is, as you may will well expect for a people so used to rain, throwing water on Sundays. The kids, men, women, all line the streets and highways just daring anyone to walk or drive down. They let you have it with a bucket full of water. Sometimes a group of people will load a barrel of water on a pickup truck and drive down the street letting the people have it. Everybody gets soaked and they all have a lot of fun. An especially mischievous trick is for the young teenagers to fill balloons with water and the first well dressed young chick that walks by gets the balloon right on the rump. I remember on one occasion driving under a bridge when we got splattered suddenly with water. We didn’t mind that too much until we looked back I noticed the beggar had no pail; he had peed on us. But it is nice to see that people can still have so much fun with such simple things.”
Fr. Andy’s transition to Lima marked a shift to urban ministry, where he engaged with Basic Christian Communities (CEBs), lay leadership formation, and youth catechism. He collaborated in Comas to organize massive religious events, such as the feast of Señor de los Milagros and Holy Week celebrations, which drew thousands of participants. The importance of empowering lay leaders and integrating faith with social action was fostered by the team.
The socio-political landscape of Peru during Fr. Andy’s ministry was tumultuous, with rising terrorism from Sendero Luminoso, economic instability, and governmental challenges. He documented the impact of these issues on daily life, including blackouts, violence, and the struggles of marginalized communities. His advocacy for justice and his critique of systemic inequities highlighted his commitment to a truly Oblate ministry.
Fr. Andy’s sabbatical year in 1985 allowed him to reconnect with his roots, pursue theological studies, and gain a broader perspective on global missionary work. Returning to Peru, he continued his work in Chincha Alta, focusing on community building, vocational promotion, and addressing the needs of the poor. His newsletters from this period reflect a deepening of his pastoral vision, integrating spiritual care with practical support, in housing projects and educational initiatives.
As many of you know, throughout his ministry, Fr. Andy maintained a strong connection with his supporters in Canada, expressing gratitude for your prayers, financial assistance, and moral support. His writings convey a sense of hope, resilience, and unwavering faith in the face of adversity and everyday challenges.
Fr. Andy’s ministry in Peru was marked by a holistic approach to missionary work, blending evangelization with social advocacy, education, and community empowerment. His legacy is one of compassion, dedication, and a profound impact on the lives of countless individuals and communities. Thank you, Andy for your seventy years of Religious Life and your gift to our community life and mission. I any of you would like to receive a copy of his 18 Newsletters over the years, please contact me and I will send you an email attachment. It’s only by reading the daily encounters and challenges that you can appreciate the gift of his oblation. Blessings!
By Ken Forster, OMI