The old saying is not true
It means that everyone is replaceable. However, the departure of the Hassfeld family reveals the nonsense of this old truth. No one will be able to fully replace the gynecologist and the director of nursing. For 15 long years, the two lived in Peru with their four children and worked in managerial positions.
Yesterday, they were bid farewell by the entire workforce. The program was full of surprises and the atmosphere was great. But you could twist and turn the thing as you wanted, the occasion remained sad.
As Missionary Doctor John elaborated in her brief acceptance speech, the Hassfelds’ history with Diospi Suyana dates back to 2004. At that time, the Baden Württemberger had read a report about the planned mission hospital and immediately made contact. Your contribution over a decade and a half is difficult to describe. The three books about Diospi Suyana reflect their valuable collaboration. The Hassfelds toiled in many different fields of work, leaving a mark that will not soon be erased.
The celebration in their honor in the crowded hospital church expressed the great gratitude of their colleagues. The hackneyed remark: We will miss you! – hit the mark.
But also their personal life style as a couple and family fully convinced. They lived as Christians and friends on equal terms with Peruvians and missionaries. They not only got involved in their workplaces, but helped in local church communities and far beyond. The gap they leave behind will be lamented many times in the coming months.
Their children Joel, Niels, Marleen and Elias are now grown up and long since in Europe. Then, on Sunday, her parents also board the plane with the last belongings that fit into their suitcases. We hope, however, that her heart will remain in Curahuasi forever.
Starting in 2023, Jens and Damaris will join the Diospi Suyana association and contribute their immense experience. At least that is some consolation for us. May God bless the six Hassfelds and continue to set them as a blessing for many. /KDJ
