Synopsis: An American Catholic missionary experiences God in an unexpected way while working among the Aymara Indians of Peru. At first he is distressed by the syncretic religious practices that he witnesses, but then he seeks to learn more about the ancient religious beliefs of the people he has come to serve. How can the Aymaras be assured of God's love, even when small children die?

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Preparation:
--Where do the Aymara Indians live? What language(s) do they speak?
--How long has there been Spanish influence in Latin America? Contact with Christianity?
--Have you known a child who has died? What was your reaction?

Discussion:
1. Outwardly, how do the Aymaras appear to be Catholic?
2. Describe the daily life of the Aymaras. What challenges do they face? What comforts do they have?
3. List the many ways that Catholic and Aymara beliefs are blended throughout the video.
4. Why did the priest decide to participate in the ancient Aymara rites? What might be the positive outcomes? What might be possible negative outcomes?
5. Why does Marcelino not go do a doctor when his son becomes sick?
6. How do Marcelino and his family see the coca leaves and their son as sacrifices?
7. How do Marcelino and his family understand God? How does this compare with your understanding of God?
8. Is the "Bible ceremony" a good substitute for a mass or church service? Why or why not?
9. What different beliefs do the people at the Bible ceremony have about why children die? About where children go when they die? About life after death? How do these compare with your beliefs?
10. Do you believe that good can be found in other religions? Explain.
11. What advice would you have for the priest as he continues to work with the people?
12. Some missionaries urge a complete break with traditional religions. Others seek ways to build on traditional beliefs and customs. If you were a missionary, where would you stand?
13. Many North Americans have their own belief systems, such as faith in the power of money. How can something like materialism get blended with Christianity?
14. Why is this video called The Healer? Think on different levels.