Friar Sérgio Antônio Görgen, founder of the MST (Landless Workers' Movement) and former congressman from Rio Grande do Sul, dies at age 70.
A religious figure and land reform activist passed away in Hulha Negra, leaving behind a legacy marked by social struggle and political activism in Rio Grande do Sul.
247 - Friar Sérgio Antônio Görgen died this Tuesday (3), at the age of 70. The religious man died at his residence, located in the Conquista da Fronteira Settlement, in the municipality of Hulha Negra, in the Campanha Region of Rio Grande do Sul. Recognized for his work in defending agrarian reform, he played a central role in social movements and state politics.
A long-time activist in organizations linked to the struggle for land, Görgen was one of the founders of the Landless Rural Workers Movement (MST) and served as a state representative for the Workers' Party (PT), consolidating a trajectory marked by social and religious engagement.
The wake will take place on Tuesday afternoon at the settlement where the friar lived. At 19 pm, a mass will be celebrated by Bishop Dom Frei Cleonir Dal Bosco, in the Parish Hall of the municipality of Candiota. The farewells will continue on Wednesday (4), at the São Boaventura Convent, located in the district of Daltro Filho, in Imigrante. The burial is scheduled for 16 pm, at the friars' cemetery, in the convent itself.
The death of Friar Sérgio Antônio Görgen provoked expressions of sorrow from political and religious leaders. President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva paid tribute to the religious figure on social media and highlighted the personal relationship he maintained with him. "I am very sad about the passing of my great friend," Lula wrote.
The president also recalled the support he received during his time in prison in Curitiba. “The faith and wise words of Frei Sérgio during his visits to Curitiba helped me to get through the difficult times with strength and hope,” he stated. Lula also highlighted the character of the friar's life, marked by his commitment to the poorest. “A life of struggle and personal sacrifices – including hunger strikes – to guarantee the rights of those who live off family farming,” he emphasized.
