The Example That Teaches
The Example That Teaches
A story based on the simplicity and greatness of exemplary actions that, through the emotion they carry, inspire and can lead to transformation in the inner self of those who admired, recognized, and followed. This has been the path of PRÓ-VIDA participants and their connection with the knowledge and the life example left by Dr. Celso Charuri, who would have turned 85 on June 11, 2025.
It was he who, just over 45 years ago, began the social responsibility actions of his Movement by founding and making the first donation from the Central Geral do Dízimo (General Center for the Tithe) – PRÓ-VIDA (CGD-PV) to a charitable institution in the city of Birigui (State of São Paulo), Brazil. Since then, more than 13,000 donations have been made in several parts of the world. For us, it is a way to show — through example — that it is possible to build a new world: by the act of giving of oneself to others.
It was also Dr. Celso who taught us to pay homage to a friend on their birthday. That is what PRÓ-VIDA participants did by reaffirming their commitment to his Work and continuing his legacy through social actions carried out by CGD-PV and its affiliates in Brazil, and by the Centers for the Tithe of Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Italy, and Portugal. Altogether, on Saturday, June 14, 30 Donation Ceremonies formalized donations to nearly 100 institutions that, combined, directly assist approximately 38,000 people.
We know that the donated items* are not, in themselves, the purpose of this act, as it goes beyond meeting the needs of the institutions. It is about contributing to the development of human potential — believing, making it possible for a better person to build a Much Better World — not only individually, but collectively.
It was for the ideal of a new world that Dr. Celso gave his life as an example — something that continues to reverberate and grow to this day. “We are sharing love, goodness, and mercy, continuing what Dr. Celso Charuri felt (…)” said Ariovaldo Aprikian, speaking on behalf of the CGD-PV, during a Donation Ceremony held at PRÓ-VIDA Headquarters, in São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
The resonance of Dr. Celso Charuri’s example was also reflected in the words of Tereza Wolga, representative of COMEB – CEI Rugrats, os Anjinhos IX, one of the institutions that were benefited during the event. In her speech, Tereza said she began participating in PRÓ-VIDA after learning more closely about the purpose of the Movement. “Because you taught me that it is very good to be here as an institution, to receive. But above all, you taught me that being here to exercise this privilege of giving is also very good,” said Tereza.
*The goods and materials referred to in these donations are the result of optional, voluntary, and anonymous bank deposits.
