O Grão Prior de Portugal, Fr+ Luís de Matos, realizou uma visita oficial aos Passos do Concelho da Câmara Municipal de Sintra, onde foi recebido em audiência privada pela assessoria do Presidente Marco Almeida.
Durante o encontro, a Ordem do Templo fez-se representar, além do Sereníssimo Grão Prior, pelo Comendador de Sintra, Fr+ Virgílio Gomes e pelo Grande Hospitalário, Fr+ Amadeu Silvestre. Procedeu-se a uma apresentação formal dos cumprimentos institucionais, num momento marcado pelo espírito de cooperação e pelo reforço de relações entre a Ordem e o município sintrense. A reunião, superiormente conduzida pelos Assessores Paulo Cunha Rodrigues e o Nuno Lobo, permitiu ainda a discussão de diversas iniciativas a desenvolver, abrangendo áreas culturais e históricas, bem como projetos de carácter humanitário, em articulação com o Templar Corps International.
Segundo fontes próximas, a autarquia, uma das maiores do país, encontra-se a preparar um protocolo de colaboração institucional, com o objetivo de estruturar e coordenar estas atividades, criando uma base formal sólida para a sua implementação no concelho de Sintra.
Paralelamente, foi também destacado o trabalho em curso na Comenda de Sintra, que se encontra em fase de elaboração de um ambicioso projeto dedicado à comunidade sintrense para os próximos três anos. Este plano visa promover o envolvimento cívico, a valorização do património histórico e o desenvolvimento de ações sociais de proximidade.
Recorde-se que a Comenda de Sintra foi a primeira estrutura da OSMTHU em Portugal, contando já com mais de três décadas de atividade contínua, tanto no concelho como a nível nacional, assumindo-se como um pilar fundamental na expansão e consolidação da presença Templária contemporânea no país. A ligação entre a Ordem do Templo e a região de Sintra é histórica e remonta ao tempo da reconquista. De facto, várias propriedades na actual Vila foram doadas ao Mestre Gualdim Pais em 1157 pelo rei D. Afonso Henriques. Junto ao Café Paris ainda se podem encontrar vestígios desses tempos, incluindo secções dos míticos túneis. Incluíam-se nas doações outros lugares de marcado interesse histórico e arqueológico, como São Miguel de Odrinhas, hoje sede de um notável museu do município, onde se pode visitar uma importante necrópole do século XII.
Esta audiência oficial surge na sequência de uma colaboração já consolidada da Ordem com outros municípios portugueses, nomeadamente Lagos, Castro Marim, Vila Nova da Barquinha, Leiria e Matosinhos, onde têm sido desenvolvidas iniciativas de carácter cultural, histórico e social, reforçando o papel da Ordem enquanto agente activo na dinamização das comunidades locais.
Christmas is often associated with children because it evokes magic, gifts and joy, with Father Christmas and decorations creating a special atmosphere that enchants them, but it is also an opportunity to teach values such as generosity and unity, celebrating the spirit of kindness and sharing for all.
For Christians, it celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, a date of extreme importance, of faith, compassion and reflection.
The Bible sees children as precious gifts from God, emphasising their inherent value, the need for parental guidance (Proverbs 22:6) and their importance in the Kingdom of Heaven (Matthew 18:3-4, Mark 10:14-16).
It is a time to spread love, unity and solidarity, regardless of religion, through small gestures of kindness and altruism.
In short, Christmas is special for children because of its magic, but the values it conveys are important for all ages, transforming it into a celebration of love and unity that can be experienced throughout the year. In keeping with the spirit of service, solidarity and cooperation, the Grand Priory of Portugal of the OSMTHU – Templar Corps joined forces this year with the England-based organisation ‘Lidia Antunes Project’ on 20 December, in support of the organisation ‘Remar’ – Portimão, once again dreams were realised and the Christmas spirit was truly felt by all involved.
A total of Twenty-three children were involved, eight of whom had written letters to the ‘Baby Jesus’ with their requests.
Their dreams came true and, for everyone who collaborated in this initiative, it was a moment of profound joy.
Special mention must be made of the Brothers who mobilized and gave a few hours of their time to the Community through their work in the Order, but not before mentioning that all this is possible thanks to the Lidia Antunes Project in collaboration with the Grand Priory of Portugal OSMTHU, which created mechanisms for us to activate resources and because we have the trust and delegation of powers conferred by the Most Serene Grand Prior General of Portugal, F+ Luís de Matos.
We would like to express our sincere gratitude to everyone involved in this initiative, in particular:
His Serene Grand Prior General of Portugal, F+ Luís de Matos S+ Lidia Antunes, DTJ and Director of the Lidia Antunes Project Organisation F+ Victor Varela Martins, KGOTJ, Grand Commander and Commander of Laccobriga S+ Maria José Viegas, DGOTJ Grand Secular Hospitaller and Seneschal of Laccobriga F+ João Rafael Gonçalves, KTJ Preceptor of Almádena/Luz F+ José Elias, KTJ Preceptor of Lagoa/Portimão and Hospitaller of Laccobriga Ana Antunes Vieira, official representative of the Lidia Antunes Project in Portugal Rebeca Lucero, representative of Remar Portimão.
“Teach a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.” Proverbs 22:6 May the Christmas spirit live in our hearts every day of the year, may our Actions, Faith and Prayers be the catalyst for us to make the world we live in a safe place for all children, where they can shine their light.
[EM PORTUGUÊS]
O Natal é frequentemente associado às crianças porque evoca magia, presentes e alegria, com o Pai Natal e as decorações criando um ambiente especial que as encanta, mas também é uma oportunidade para ensinar valores como generosidade e união, celebrando o espírito de bondade e partilha para todos.
Para os cristãos, celebra-se o nascimento de Jesus Cristo, uma data de extrema importância, de Fé, de compaixão e de reflexão.
A Bíblia vê as crianças como presentes preciosos de Deus, enfatizando o seu valor inerente, a necessidade da orientação dos pais (Provérbios 22:6) e a sua importância no Reino dos Céus (Mateus 18:3-4, Marcos 10:14-16).
É uma época para espalhar o amor, a união e a solidariedade, independentemente da religião, por meio de pequenos gestos de gentileza e altruísmo.
Em suma, o Natal é especial para as crianças pela sua magia, mas os valores que transmitem são importantes para todas as idades, transformando-os numa celebração de amor e união que podem ser vividas ao longo de todo o ano.
Assim como o espírito de serviço, solidariedade e cooperação, o Grão-Priorado de Portugal da OSMTHU – Templar Corps, juntou-se este ano à organização “Lidia Antunes Project”, com sede em Inglaterra, no dia 20 de dezembro, e em apoio à organização “Remar” – Portimão, mais uma vez sonhos foram realizados e o espírito natalício verdadeiramente sentido por todos os envolvidos.
Foram abrangidas 23 crianças, das quais 8 tinham escrito cartas ao “Menino Jesus” com os seus pedidos.
Os seus sonhos foram tornados realidade e, para todos os que colaboraram nesta iniciativa, foi um momento de profunda alegria.
É devida uma referência especial aos Irmãos que se mobilizaram e que deram umas horas do seu tempo em prol da Comunidade através do seu trabalho na Ordem, mas sem antes referir que tudo isto é possível por via da Lidia Antunes Project em colaboração com Grão Priorado de Portugal OSMTHU que gerou mecanismos para que possamos activar recursos e por determos a confiança e delegação de competências conferidas pelo Sereníssimo Grão-Prior Geral de Portugal, o F+ Luís de Matos.
Assim o mais sincero agradecimento a todos envolvidos nesta acção em especial:
Sereníssimo Grão-Prior Geral de Portugal, o F+ Luís de Matos S+ Lidia Antunes, DTJ e Directora da Organização “Lidia Antunes Project” F+ Victor Varela Martins, KGOTJ, Grão Comendador e Comendador de Laccobriga S+ Maria José Viegas, DGOTJ Grão Hospitalaria Secular e Senescal de Laccobriga F+ João Rafael Gonçalves, KTJ Preceptor de Almádena/Luz F+ José Elias, KTJ Preceptor de Lagoa/Portimão e Hospitalário de Laccobriga Ana Antunes Vieira, representante oficial do “Lidia Antunes Project” em Portugal Rebeca Lucero, representante da Remar Portimão.
“Educa a criança no caminho em que deve andar; e até quando envelhecer não se desviará dele.” Provérbios 22:6
Que o espírito natalício esteja vivo dentro dos nossos corações todos os dias do ano, que as nossas Acções, Fé e Orações sejam o catalisador para que possamos tornar o mundo em que vivemos num lugar seguro para todas as crianças, onde elas possam brilhar a sua luz.
Em Março de 2022, o Templar Corps International – Portugal partiu do Algarve com uma coluna de viaturas numa missão humanitária rumo à fronteira da Ucrânia. Levava alimentos, medicamentos e muita esperança. Voltou com famílias refugiadas, unidas novamente com os seus em Portugal. Foi um gesto simples, mas muito significativo e profundo: transformar a estrada em ponte de vida e de união entre os povos, ainda que distantes e que a Paz tem de ser laboriosamente promovida mesmo com esforço.
Hoje, 23 de Agosto, celebramos o Dia da Bandeira da Ucrânia — símbolo azul e amarelo da liberdade e da perseverança. Amanhã, 24 de Agosto, assinalamos o Dia da Independência da Ucrânia, recordando que a coragem de um povo inspira o mundo e é um exemplo de Fortitude e de luta pela Verdade, pela Justiça e Liberdade de um povo e de uma Nação.
O TemplarCorps honra esses dias, os de hoje e de amanhã e, sobretudo, os dias de Março de 2022 em que levámos Esperança a quem desesperava. Uma palavra aos irmãos do Grão-Priorado de Portugal da OSMTHU – da Comenda de Laccobriga e do Conselho Prioral – activamente envolvidos em toda a logística que deu suporte antes e durante a missão, às Entidades Públicas e privadas envolvidas, os doadores e patrocinadores e lembrando que cada acto de solidariedade é também uma vitória da paz.
A missão iniciou em Lagos, passou por São Braz de Alportel e Almodôvar, juntou-se com viaturas vindas de Lisboa e Camarate e, em Coluna Humanitária, seguiram para a fronteira com a Ucrânia, sob a Bandeira do Templar Corps e subordinada à regência da Ordem do Templo :: OSMTHU.
Viva a Ucrânia livre. Viva uma Europa de harmonia entre todos os seus povos e que venha breve, com o compromisso de todos e na graça de Deus.
non nobis, Domine, non nobis, sed Nomini Tuo da gloriam
Recorde a MISSÃO em 2022. HELP UKRAINE – REFUGEE
No dia 25 de Julho foi efectuado o apelo aos Irmãos do Priorado Secular da OSMTHU e ao Templar Corps International para cooperarem no pedido de ajuda externa na recolha de bens alimentares não perecíveis. Em cinco dias, tivemos vários Irmãos da Ordem que reagiram e geraram a onda solidária necessária que ultrapassou as expectativas. A dispensa da Casa Padre Almeida está lotada. E mais, a continuidade da sua missão está garantida por mais umas semanas.
É devida uma referência especial aos Irmãos que se mobilizaram e que deram umas horas do seu tempo em prol da Comunidade através do seu trabalho na Ordem, mas sem antes referir que tudo isto é possível por via da OSMTHU e do Priorado, que gerou mecanismos para que possamos activar recursos e por determos a confiança e delegação de competências conferidas pelo Sereníssimo Grão-Prior Geral de Portugal, o F+ Luís de Matos.
Na acção participaram Irmãos e Irmãs, bem como amigos da Ordem de Portugal, Espanha e Inglaterra.
Assim a companhia de irmãos envolvidos directamente são:
F+ Victor Varela Martins, KCTJ
F+ José Elias, KTJ Hospitalário de Laccobriga
F+ João Rafael Gonçalves, KTJ Preceptor de Almádena
F+ Luís Alves Costa, KTJ Preceptor de Vale do Sousa
F+ Amadeu Silvestre, KTJ Preceptor de Setúbal
S+ Zezinha Maria José Justo, DTJ Senescal de Laccobriga
S+ Lidia Antunes, DTJ
I+ Nelson Santos, KTJ
I+ Anita Leal, DTJ
I+ José Eusébio, KTJ
I+ Thomas Antunes, KTJ
I+ Sandra Oliveira, DTJ
A estes juntam-se os de Espanha e Inglaterra, cooperantes à distância.
A estes, vários Voluntários da CPA se juntaram para gerir os recursos no espaço e diversas pessoas anónimas que cooperaram com o projecto, doando bens alimentares, nomeadamente um grupo de trabalhadores da empresa MOEVE, de Palos de La Frontera (cidade geminada com Lagos) que rapidamente aderiram ao pedido de ajuda e juntaram mais de 300kg de bens alimentares e os transportaram de Huleva (Espanha) para Lagos, assim como a Óptica Fábrica dos Óculos, de Lagos e a Ervanária NaturBoticae, que cooperaram na recolha e aquisição de alimentos.
Um pensamento muito especial ao nosso amigo e reverendo Padre Almeida, padre Redentorista, que dedicou muitos anos da sua vida a Lagos e às suas gentes, que iniciou este labor assistencialista num tempo em que tudo era difícil, num corredor anexo à Sacristia da Igreja de Santa Maria de Lagos e onde a Comenda de Laccobriga tantas vezes foi entregar o pouco que conseguia reunir entre os nove Irmãos que iniciaram a presença Templária no Algarve e as grandes quantidades recolhidas anualmente por via das Jornadas Templárias Ecuménicas.
O Pe Almeida sempre soube receber e muito nos deu, seja no acolhimento quanto na aceitação e apoio, ou não tivesse ele, também, um percurso de peregrino e missionário em terras longínquas. Que as suas orações de hoje possam conter um pensamento e uma palavra em nosso favor!
Uma palavra também ao reverendo Pe Nelson Rodrigues, pároco de Lagos, por ter criado este projecto caritativo e por tanta gente de boa-vontade se ter associado ao mesmo.
De referir que, tristemente, nada está feito. Que nada está cumprido ou alcançado enquanto houver uma Alma carênciada na Terra. Pois se este projecto assistencialista existe para mitigar a carestia física e nutricional de cada dia daqueles que estão numa fase menos activa ou desafogada das suas vidas, o objectivo maior é o de que todos possam deter o poder em si mesmos de não terem a necessidade de a ele recorrer. Que no nosso trabalho, oração e acção possamos ser cooperantes para um mundo melhor e mais justo e equitativo!
Mas, enquanto não se alcança tal dimensão de bem-estar no mundo, que hajam as condições para que toda a Obra de Misericórdia se cumpra, para a maior glória de Deus Pai. Pois que, sempre que os Irmãos da Cavalaria Templária agem na Comunidade e para benefício das suas gentes, património e instituições, o serviço é ao Altíssimo, não a nós!
Em cinco dias reunimos uma tonelada e meia de alimentos não perecíveis por entre gente de boa-vontade e de coração fraterno é a expressão do amor cristão expresso pela Cavalaria Templária em si mesma.
Um obrigado a Todos os respeitáveis Irmãos envolvidos e a todos os doadores que aderiram à chamada ao serviço. Todos ressoaram na tónica Templária!
Aos beneficiários que virão a receber todos estes bens, que além do alimento para o corpo possam receber o calor e o afecto, a força do Paráclito que seja transformadora das suas vidas, para que possam, num futuro próximo, serem eles próprios as mãos que servem.
Para a maior glória de Deus.
In Hoc Signo Vinces
Grão-Priorado de Portugal da OSMTHU
O Comendador de Laccobriga
It is with great joy that I announce the beginning of the first Training Classes in Electricity in Guinea-Bissau tomorrow, under the Protocol between Templar Corps International and the State Secretariat for Communities of that country. Trainer João Carrilho arrived in Bissau today and has already held the first introductory session with the class, which was described as a very enthusiastic encounter.
As you know, the agreement was signed in November 2024, but it has been a significant struggle to get the project started, with the Portuguese Embassy in Bissau proving to be one of the major obstacles by insisting on processing the trainees’ internship visas under the general contingent of students registered by the Portuguese Government – a list that includes over 5,000 students (!) and creates a waiting period of several months. It’s not just AIMA!… One day, I may publish the emails, private messages, and all the efforts the team has made to bring this project to life, which, for now, is only just beginning! But many updates will follow in the coming days!
Thank you to everyone who has actively contributed to empowering a group of Guinean students and transforming their lives forever. Today, history was made. June 10th.
Today was dedicated to practical training at the Bissau Fire Department. National Deputy Commander Jorge Amador began by preparing all the materials in the available ambulance for the simulation exercise.
The advanced life support simulation training session for medical emergencies involves a realistic, high-pressure scenario where participants simulate the rescue of a critically ill patient.
The setup includes both training mannequins and human volunteers. The team begins with an initial assessment focusing on the patient’s airway, breathing, and circulation (ABC), using an ECG monitor to evaluate heart rhythm.
Next, participants practice techniques such as intubation, defibrillation, administration of medications like epinephrine, and intravenous line placement, following specific protocols for critical situations. A key focus is on effective communication and clearly defined roles (leader, defibrillator operator, compression provider) to ensure a coordinated response.
After the exercise, participants discuss their actions, receive feedback on technical skills and team dynamics, and identify areas for improvement for future real-life situations.
TGB, Guinea-Bissau’s television network, was present and covered the event, producing a news segment for that evening’s broadcast.
Training in medical emergency scenarios is crucial for fire and ambulance teams. In emergencies, every second counts. The training simulates real-life situations, allowing the team to practice and improve their real-time responses, which can save lives.
On the other hand, equipment like defibrillators and ventilators requires maintenance and practice to be used safely and quickly. Familiarity with these devices increases confidence and reduces the margin for error. Additionally, emergency situations vary widely. Training allows teams to face different scenarios (such as car accidents or cardiac arrests), promoting flexibility and better improvisation skills when needed.
It was an enriching experience for the large team, who learned new techniques and response methodologies. Trainer Jorge Amador noted that the team was well-coordinated, eager to learn, and had the potential to respond effectively to emergencies in Guinea-Bissau’s capital.
Strangers when they arrived, they departed as friends and companions after a few days of work. The Templar Corps International will return soon with equipment and further training. The values of true Templar Chivalry were present in Bissau, and it shows.
The day ended with a warm and open gathering at a nearby restaurant, enjoying local food and a bottle of wine from the Alentejo Portuguese region.
NOVEMBER 7
The mission moved out of Bissau, heading north towards the Cacheu province.
On their way, they visited the General Directorate of Health of Biombo and the Quinhamel Health Center. The goal was to identify opportunities and challenges, as well as consult health professionals and local authorities about the issues related to healthcare service delivery in this region, which is located near the capital.
The main shortages were noted and discussed. From a material perspective, there is a lack of medical equipment, medications, and supplies. The scarcity of essential diagnostic and treatment equipment creates significant limitations in the services that can be provided to patients.
Some equipment donated in the past has maintenance issues, missing parts, and some is no longer in use. There is often a shortage of basic medications and materials such as gloves, syringes, and emergency kits.
Hospital structures are in poor condition, making quality care difficult. There is also an unstable supply of clean water and electricity, which limits hospital operations and negatively impacts patient care and infection control.
Additionally, there is a shortage of specialized health professionals, and attracting and retaining qualified doctors is a challenge. Despite these limitations, the staff is highly dedicated and compensates for the lack of equipment and supplies with a strong commitment to patient care and well-being, which is noteworthy.
For the Delegation, leaving the capital was extremely important as it allowed for a better understanding of the reality in more remote areas, far from decision-making centers.
The information gathered will help prepare various projects and initiatives aimed at improving healthcare conditions and performance. In this regard, Templar Corps International hopes to contribute in the near future.
The team returned to Bissau at sundown.
NOVEMBER 8
The last day of the Mission, before returning to Lisbon, began with a visit to His Excellency Dr. Pedro Tipote, the Minister of Health of Guinea-Bissau. The meeting, held at the Ministry, was marked by cordiality and a keen interest in getting to know Templar Corps International.
The discussion focused on cooperation in the health sector, aiming to strengthen the country’s healthcare system. Both sides exchanged information on priorities and challenges, such as the lack of medical equipment and human resources.
Templar Corps proposed technical and logistical support, including training programs and provision of essential materials. The Minister of Health emphasized the importance of the partnership, reinforcing the commitment to future collaboration.
The team then met with the Secretary of State for Public Order, Dr. José Carlos Macedo, at the Ministry of the Interior. Templar Corps International briefed him on the training actions conducted with the Bissau Firefighters, as well as the numerous initiatives being prepared in the areas of Civil Protection and support for security forces.
Confidential topics related to security and technology were also discussed. The meeting focused on training and technology for defense, public order, and security. Possible areas of collaboration were explored to strengthen the capacity of security forces, with an emphasis on emergency management and crisis response. The Secretary of State expressed great interest in the cooperation, highlighting the importance of technical support for ensuring modern and efficient security in the country.
With these final meetings, the Templar Corps’ Diplomatic Mission to Guinea-Bissau at the invitation of the Secretary of State for Communities, Dr. Nelson Pereira, concluded.
The team expressed their gratitude for the unparalleled hospitality and warm reception they experienced daily. They also thanked the strong friendships formed and the solid international cooperation bridges built over more than 10 days of the mission.
The morning started with the Delegation being taken for a planning visit to the Secretary of State for Communities. Throughout the week, we’ve been engaging with the realities of Guinea-Bissau and gathering information on many of its needs, as well as areas where the Templar Corps has the capacity to contribute to positive, significant changes.
Following last week’s meeting with His Excellency the Minister of Education, it became clear that dropping out of studies without acquiring technical and professional skills leaves a significant number of young people out of the educational system before they can develop the technical skills needed for a profession. Additionally, there are many requests arriving at the Secretary of State for Communities for support in studying in Portugal. However, it’s challenging to promptly address all situations since specific rules govern student visas, including requirements for accompanying students during the academic period.
In this context, within the scope of the Memorandum of Understanding and aligned with the upcoming Protocol, the Templar Corps proposed forming training classes in specific technical-professional fields and assuming all logistics for training and internships in Portugal, under the guidance of the Algarve Outpost and the Commandery of Arraiolos.
This, set to be the first project from the Partnership, was agreed upon in its general terms. It will allow a limited number of students—expected to expand in 2025—to receive training and internships in essential fields for Guinea-Bissau, such as Electricity, Sanitation, Construction, and Sustainable Agriculture, among others.
To initiate the process through official channels, the Templar Corps informed relevant authorities in the Portuguese government about the Memorandum of Understanding with Guinea-Bissau, as well as about the plans that will be outlined in the near future.
The Mission’s schedule was reviewed, focusing the upcoming days on the expertise of Vice-Commander Amador, specifically in overseeing firefighter training and meeting with the Minister of the Interior to potentially provide training for security forces and coordinate with Civil Protection.
The training at the Bissau Fire Station will occur on the 5th and 6th, with theoretical instruction on the first day and practical procedures on the second, covering emergency response and basic life support techniques.
To prepare the activities, Vice-Commander Amador went to the Fire Station, where he conducted a more detailed general inspection, gathering information on the most pressing issues related to both equipment and maintenance, as well as knowledge gaps.
Much of the available equipment results from international donations. The equipment is generally good, in active use, and the team’s skills are adequate for its handling. However, there are limitations when it comes to larger or more impactful emergencies. Additionally, due to the varying origins of the equipment, compatibility issues with standards and technology arise. For example, hoses from some firefighting vehicles have connectors of different diameters and standards, causing confusion and disruptions during emergencies.
The technical visit was extremely valuable, significantly aiding the Templar Corps in tailoring the upcoming training to the specific needs of this essential fire department in Guinea-Bissau’s capital.
The meeting between the Templar Corps and the fire department’s leadership was both effective and very cordial, as they exchanged ideas, discussed needs and shortages, and worked toward a better understanding of how to introduce new dynamics in teamwork.
Vice-Commander Amador then spoke briefly with the team members, explaining the content of the theoretical training scheduled to start tomorrow and the requirements for the practical training the following day, where equipment and personnel must be prepared to respond to a simulated emergency mission.
The night ended with another planning meeting before dinner. Project A, focusing on technical and professional training for young people from Guinea-Bissau under the Templar Corps and Secretariat of State for Communities agreement, was finalized, with the process now underway. Project B, aimed at coordination and training for Bissau’s Fire Department, was also advanced, with more details to follow after the upcoming two days of training. Finally, a visit to Cacheu Hospital was scheduled for the 7th to gather detailed information on healthcare needs.
It was decided that I, Luis de Matos, Head of Mission, should return to Portugal due to health concerns caused by the heat, including a significant low blood pressure episode, as well as to oversee Project A’s launch. Additionally, with protocol matters largely resolved, my presence is not essential for the forthcoming training sessions. The mission will continue with Commander Rui Herdadinha and Vice-Commander Jorge Amador.
NOVEMBER 5
Early in the morning, Commander Herdadinha posted a picture of his breakfast on Facebook. I saw it from my room and rushed to join him. By the time I arrived, he had already gone for his morning walk. Yes, this boundless energy battery went to bed late last night and today, after nearly a week of meetings and travel under nearly 40°C (104º F) heat, and he still woke up before 7 AM and went for a happy half-hour walk before the rest of the delegation was ready to join him for breakfast! Shortly after, Jorge Amador came down and we chatted over coffee until Herdadinha reappeared, smiling widely, joking, “I always get up at 6 AM!”
After breakfast, we split up. Jorge was very motivated for the training. He mentioned that the firefighters asked many questions and were excited about learning more, especially with the idea of conducting drills for real-life situations, something they hadn’t done yet. They departed for their mission, and we said our goodbyes. Soon after, Liaison Officer Afonso Mendes came to pick me up at the hotel to take me to the Bissau airport.
We took a typical Bissau taxi. As the Mercedes skillfully avoided collisions with other vehicles—taxis, jeeps, cars, motorcycles, and pedestrians crossing the road without warning—I felt like I was watching a huge flock of birds. It seemed chaotic, but each participant was so aware of the others that no one collided. During my days in Bissau, I didn’t witness a single accident or even a minor fender-bender between two vehicles (or “viaturas,” as they like to say, influenced by French, the growing language in the country).
When we visit a foreign country, we tend to compare what we see with what we have at home. There are always differences and curious aspects. But for me, Guinea-Bissau defies all rational observations. There are many things I don’t understand, leaving me utterly perplexed about the reasoning behind certain decisions. In the context of my visit to the airport, I’ll give just three examples. Without wanting to diminish the country, which I loved, here they are:
My flight ticket was purchased at a travel agency in Bissau about 2 hours before the flight. The agency uses the Galileo system. Due to internet issues in Bissau, Galileo hadn’t synchronized with TAP by the time I arrived at the airport for check-in. Since check-in is done through TAP’s website by their staff and not through Galileo (which they do not have access to), I had no reservation still in the system! They sent me to a hallway with some rooms where a staff member “maybe could solve the problem.”
I had already seen rooms identified with engraved signs, company stickers, or even printed paper fixed to the wall with tape. But I had never seen a room marked with a post-it note! Was it really that temporary?
I understood from the staff member that the only way to solve the problem was by paying for a new ticket and reservation. So I asked the Liaison Officer, who was outside on the parking lot, to help. He managed to get inside the airport and approached the room. The conversation between him and the officer was in Creole (the language typically spoken by Guineans among themselves), but I understood parts of it. It was probably something like this:
“The reservation is not in the TAP system. You need to make a new one and pay.”
“But it was made and paid at the agency two hours ago. Can’t you find it in the system?”
“Agency? What agency? Here? In Bissau?”
“Yes, at the [Agency Name].”
“At [Agency Name]? With whom?”
“It was Djuma, I just came from there.”
“DJUMA? You said DJUMA? I know her! Djuma?”
“Yes, do you want me to call her?”
“She was my schoolmate. Djuma? From my class…”
“Hello, Djuma, I’m here at the airport with a reservation problem…”
“Give me the phone… Djuma? How are you? It’s Naiana! Yes, from your school! I’m here, working with TAP now. Yes, there’s a gentleman here with a problem. Yes… Yes… Alright… Goodbye then.”
And, by a miracle, the unsolvable problem was solved! He gave me a new boarding pass and ripped up the previous reservation… Just like that. Blessed Djuma! [Names changed to protect the individuals.] I couldn’t get my head around that one!
Once inside the departure lounge, I wanted to know the WiFi password.
There it was, this time not on a post-it, but on a printed sheet of paper stuck to a pillar with pieces of tape. First off, having a password like “123456789” or no password at all is the same thing! But why on earth would you put this password on a public network and then post a piece of paper with the password? I don’t get it. The password is so weak it’s almost like there isn’t one at all, but there is. My mind spins without control. It makes me want to try all the passwords for all the other systems in the airport!
But it doesn’t stop there. I search for the network and can’t find it. I make my phone do a deep search. Nothing. It doesn’t exist. I was on my third attempt when a gentleman sitting next to me, seeing my body language, touched my shoulder and said, “Read it again.” I replied, “WiFi – Partida – Password: 123456789.” He responded, “No, read carefully. It’s broken. It doesn’t work.” “Ah! WiFi – PARTIDA (in portuguese “partida” means “departure”, but also “broken”…) Ah! Ok… My mind melted right then and there.
Three simple examples of my constant perplexity! And so, I boarded the flight.
Meanwhile, the other members of the delegation began their training session.
The training focused on key areas essential for responding to emergencies efficiently and safely, including:
Urban Firefighting: Discussing specific techniques to control fires in different environments and prevent the spread of flames.
Rescue and Pre-Hospital Care: First aid techniques, including basic and advanced life support, use of defibrillators, and trauma care.
Rescue in Vehicle Accidents: Techniques to free and assist victims trapped in wrecked vehicles.
Disaster Management and Emergency Coordination: Planning for rapid and efficient response to natural disasters and large-scale incidents.
Operational Equipment and Safety: Training in the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and firefighting vehicles to minimize risks to firefighters, which will be the focus of tomorrow’s drills.
The day ended with a dinner where a very positive assessment of the Mission so far was made. Tomorrow will be especially challenging, with drills, followed by a trip to the Cacheu region on Thursday.
The delegation began the day with a hearty breakfast, feeling energized. Or rather, Commander Herdadinha was full of energy (as always!), while Vice-Commander Amador was more focused on retrieving his luggage, expected to arrive on the 1:00 pm flight. Personally, I felt weighed down by the intense heat—today it’s around 38ºC (102ºF), making it hard to keep cool. Thankfully, my colleagues’ upbeat attitude helped lift everyone’s spirits.
Due to the airport pickup schedule, the day was split into a morning discussion on potential Templar Corps and Guinea-Bissau cooperation projects, followed by an afternoon visit to Bissau’s Fire Station to prepare for a training session planned for Monday.
The main topics of the morning discussions were divided into two major areas: Agriculture and Civil Protection.
Guinea-Bissau is an incredibly fertile country, located between the Tropic of Cancer and the Equator. Its coastline stretches from Cabo Roxo to Ponta Cagete. It shares borders with Senegal to the north, Guinea to the east and southeast, and is bounded by the Atlantic Ocean to the west, with over 80 islands and islets, forming an unparalleled natural wonder.
The continental part is formed by a coastal plain and an interior plateau zone. The interior zone is formed by low plateaus, and two transition zones can be distinguished that lead to two small plateaus – Bafatá and Gabú – and the hilly area with the highest altitudes in the country, (around 300m) in the region of Boé.
Three major products are grown in Guinea-Bissau: rice, mango and cashew nuts. But one of the things that the Delegation noticed at the end of a couple of meals is that the rice and vegetables consumed at almost all meals are not produced in Guinea. Even rice is mostly imported. Tomatoes, onions and cucumbers come from Senegal and rice from Pakistan. Mango and cashew are also destined almost 100% the export market, without any local industrial transformation.
In other words, the creation of value for these products that are highly sought after worldwide is done outside the country. For Guinea, rice, mango and cashew are commodities. They have a value by weight, as they are collected in the wild. Their industrial treatment and the value added to them by this treatment is a gain made outside the country.
The Templar Corps International, through some of its leaders in Italy, Portugal, and the OSMTHU, had been involved years ago in similar projects in Asia related to coffee. In that case, as here, the primary issue was that local communities manage commodities, but added commercial value is created outside the country, limiting local benefits. It was decided to revisit the documents from that time to explore ways of designing projects adapted to Guinea-Bissau’s specific context.
Regarding the topic of Civil Protection, Vice-Commander Amador presented several ideas, focusing on training local forces and implementing an emergency communication and coordination center. He proposed establishing an ambulance unit operated by well-trained local staff, equipped for first aid and accident response, which could greatly impact the city of Bissau. He expressed his willingness to facilitate the donation of some units through the Templar Corps International and to coordinate the necessary training, potentially using an abandoned building or constructing a new one with sustainable methods on a donated city lot.
As lunchtime approached, the Delegation split up. Vice-Commander Amador was taken to the airport to retrieve his luggage. Unfortunately, the troubles with this luggage continued to escalate. First, the flight was delayed by two hours, seriously impacting the afternoon’s work. When the luggage finally arrived, it surprisingly contained unrelated items—like chocolates, hair products, and cosmetics—while his drone had mysteriously disappeared. Customs required him to pay excess baggage fees for items he didn’t own. Despite the confusion, the commitment to the Mission prevailed, though the drone was lost for good.
Back at the hotel with the rest of the Delegation, he expressed some relief that his clothes and the training materials (aside from the drone) were intact. It appears that some airport staff check baggage weight and, if a bag doesn’t reach the 23kg limit, they open it to add contents from other bags of the same passenger to use up the allowed weight. During check-in, his bag was wrapped in pink cellophane with two others that weren’t his, leading to the confusion—including dozens of chocolate bars and women’s hair products!
There was still a preliminary visit to the Fire Station. The visit was brief and aimed solely at preparing for Monday’s training. Vice-Commander Amador familiarized himself with the firefighting equipment, noting its condition and operability. He took notes and made a few recommendations.
NOVEMBER 3
Being Sunday, the Delegation took the day to rest. An initial visit to the islands was planned; however, the delay of the luggage at the airport compromised the possibility of catching the boat on Friday.
Therefore, accompanied by local team members Gaio Gomes and Afonso Mendes, under the guidance of Secretary of State Nelson Pereira, the afternoon was spent at a typical restaurant in the port area, enjoying homemade food and Guinean music. The hospitality of the friends from Guinea-Bissau is unparalleled.
Lagos, 8 de Setembro de 2024
A Cavalaria sendo chamada, responde presente.
Se a Tónica e Missão da Ordem do Templo contempla o Serviço, então tanto os Caminhos quanto os Peregrinos devem ser cuidados, sempre.
Se a Cavalaria Templária protege, o Sacerdócio oficia. Para a maior glória de Deus.
Fr+ Alberto dos Santos, KTJ, member of the OSMTHU Grand Priory of Portugal, has organized a second event on behalf of the children of Luanda. Coupled with Fr+ Vítor Diogo Rodrigues from KMFAP – Embassy of the Federation of the Order of the Knights of St. John of Jerusalem, the event took place at the EL BETEL Association – A Shelter Center for Disadvantaged Children and Youth in the capital of Angola.
They donated toys, food items, medicines and provided much needed free medical consultations. It was a day of celebration for the children and the staff of EL BETEL. The Templar Corps is committed to keep the international goodwill chain of Chivalry active. This initiative was sponsored by the companies CLIMEDICO ANGOLA, Grupo FORSAUDE, FITCENTER, and SIKA.
O Grão Prior de Portugal, Fr+ Luís de Matos, realizou uma visita oficial aos Passos do Concelho da Câmara Municipal de Sintra, onde foi recebido em audiência privada pela assessoria do Presidente Marco Almeida.
Durante o encontro, a Ordem do Templo fez-se representar, além do Sereníssimo Grão Prior, pelo Comendador de Sintra, Fr+ Virgílio Gomes e pelo Grande Hospitalário, Fr+ Amadeu Silvestre. Procedeu-se a uma apresentação formal dos cumprimentos institucionais, num momento marcado pelo espírito de cooperação e pelo reforço de relações entre a Ordem e o município sintrense. A reunião, superiormente conduzida pelos Assessores Paulo Cunha Rodrigues e o Nuno Lobo, permitiu ainda a discussão de diversas iniciativas a desenvolver, abrangendo áreas culturais e históricas, bem como projetos de carácter humanitário, em articulação com o Templar Corps International.
Segundo fontes próximas, a autarquia, uma das maiores do país, encontra-se a preparar um protocolo de colaboração institucional, com o objetivo de estruturar e coordenar estas atividades, criando uma base formal sólida para a sua implementação no concelho de Sintra.
Paralelamente, foi também destacado o trabalho em curso na Comenda de Sintra, que se encontra em fase de elaboração de um ambicioso projeto dedicado à comunidade sintrense para os próximos três anos. Este plano visa promover o envolvimento cívico, a valorização do património histórico e o desenvolvimento de ações sociais de proximidade.
Recorde-se que a Comenda de Sintra foi a primeira estrutura da OSMTHU em Portugal, contando já com mais de três décadas de atividade contínua, tanto no concelho como a nível nacional, assumindo-se como um pilar fundamental na expansão e consolidação da presença Templária contemporânea no país. A ligação entre a Ordem do Templo e a região de Sintra é histórica e remonta ao tempo da reconquista. De facto, várias propriedades na actual Vila foram doadas ao Mestre Gualdim Pais em 1157 pelo rei D. Afonso Henriques. Junto ao Café Paris ainda se podem encontrar vestígios desses tempos, incluindo secções dos míticos túneis. Incluíam-se nas doações outros lugares de marcado interesse histórico e arqueológico, como São Miguel de Odrinhas, hoje sede de um notável museu do município, onde se pode visitar uma importante necrópole do século XII.
Esta audiência oficial surge na sequência de uma colaboração já consolidada da Ordem com outros municípios portugueses, nomeadamente Lagos, Castro Marim, Vila Nova da Barquinha, Leiria e Matosinhos, onde têm sido desenvolvidas iniciativas de carácter cultural, histórico e social, reforçando o papel da Ordem enquanto agente activo na dinamização das comunidades locais.
[Em Português mais abaixo]
Em Março de 2022, o Templar Corps International – Portugal partiu do Algarve com uma coluna de viaturas numa missão humanitária rumo à fronteira da Ucrânia. Levava alimentos, medicamentos e muita esperança. Voltou com famílias refugiadas, unidas novamente com os seus em Portugal. Foi um gesto simples, mas muito significativo e profundo: transformar a estrada em ponte de vida e de união entre os povos, ainda que distantes e que a Paz tem de ser laboriosamente promovida mesmo com esforço.
