Social projects and shelters run by the Alliance of Mercy held events in memory of the man who became a symbol of transformation and care for those most in need.

On the day September 16, 2026, Today marked the 25th anniversary of the death of Nivaldo da Cruz, the first missionary of the Alliance of Mercy. To commemorate the date, various social projects and shelters held activities inspired by his life story.

Nivaldo lived a life marked by hardship, poverty, drugs, and crime. His encounter with faith and a new perspective on life paved the way for profound change. From that experience, he began to dedicate himself especially to people who also carried stories of exclusion and vulnerability.

Therefore, its trajectory remains closely aligned with the social mission currently being developed by the Alliance: To embrace difficult stories without reducing anyone to their own past and to believe in the possibility of a new beginning.

A story shared with children and teenagers.

At the CCA São Domingos, in Campos Elíseos, São Paulo (SP), Children and teenagers learned about Nivaldo's life story during an activity led by Leandro, a seminarian, and Giulia, a missionary.

An activity helped the group discuss choices, consequences, and transformation. The proposal also encouraged each participant to think about their own dreams and plans for the future.

At the CEI Misericórdia II, in Taipas, São Paulo (SP), The story was presented to the children during a picnic. In a playful and affectionate way, the activity worked on values such as friendship, respect, companionship, and caring for others.

Memory and coexistence in Restore Me

In the Casa Restaura-me, in Brás, São Paulo (SP), People served by the project participated in a moment of reflection on Nivaldo's life and his dedication to his siblings.

The program concluded with a special lunch and a time of fellowship among participants, staff, and missionaries.

A journey that resonates with those who are starting over.

In the shelters, Nivaldo's story takes on a very concrete meaning. Just as he found a way to rebuild his own life, many men and women today arrive at the Alliance's projects seeking new opportunities and paths.

In the Cordeiro Imolado Shelter Home, in Piracicaba (SP), The program included moments of reflection, a screening of a documentary about Nivaldo, a special lunch, and social activities. Those being cared for also received a small pocket cross as a memento of the occasion.

In the Sorting House, in Rio das Pedras (SP), The documentary about his life moved the participants. Reginaldo, known as Tarzan, who knew Nivaldo personally, also shared his memories and experiences.

Already Sacred Heart of Jesus Site, in Barbacena (MG), The day included reflection on its history, a celebratory lunch, fellowship, and the distribution of souvenirs to the participants.

A legacy that remains relevant today.

Twenty-five years later, Nivaldo's story remains relevant, especially among people who know, from their own experience, what it means to need a second chance.

His trajectory helps to illustrate a principle that remains at the heart of the social work of the Alliance of Mercy: A person is always greater than the most difficult moments in their life.

In every child supported, in every vulnerable person assisted, and in every individual who begins to rebuild their own life, Nivaldo's legacy continues to find new paths.