Author: Missionaries of Africa - Southern Africa Province (SAP) Page 83 of 113

Fraternité Lavigerie, Abidjan Ivory Coast

The Missionaries of Africa are pleased to invite you to the Oath and the Diaconate of 5 Missionaries of Africa. See Invitation card.

Adam CHOMA

Lamec CIZA

Gaspard CIRIMWAMI

Christian MUHINEZA

Armand DAKOUO

Fr. Ignatius Anipu, Provincial, will receive the Oaths on Friday the 6^th December 2013 at la Fraternité Lavigerie.

Bishop Claude Rault M.Afr., Bishop of Laghouat (Algeria), will confer the Diaconate on Saturday the 7^th of December 2013 at 9.00 pm at St Jean-Baptiste d’Abobo-Avocatier Parish on Sunday 8^th December Thanksgiving Mass. We congratulate them wholeheartedly as well as their families.

Fraternité Lavigerie
Missionnaires d’Afrique, Pères Blancs
13 BP 3110, Abidjan, 13
Côte d’Ivoire

Present Magazine November 2013

By Missionaries of Africa - Southern Africa Province (SAP)

On November 19, 2013

In Publications

I hope and trust that you are all fine. This year has been quiet busy for me with Fr. Mambwe leaving Kolibo Center for his new appointment. My life will now be more than ever before between Serenje and anywhere else. At present I am in Serenje with ten young men for a “Come and See” after which I shall be headed to Chipata next week 25^th November to 29th for another “Come and See” with six young men.

It is good to note that the East has continued to grow as regards the number of aspirants; we can only thank the Lord and also appreciate the efforts of our confrères there, who have been so motivating and instrumental in this ministry. FULL TEXT

Mafrwestafrica – Lettre du 15 novembre 2013

By Missionaries of Africa - Southern Africa Province (SAP)

On November 18, 2013

In News

– Dans la rubrique « Actualités » :
« Les statistiques du personnel M.Afr.» : classé par nationalité, lieu d’engagement, etc… voir en particulier celles de tous les candidats présentement en formation.(lire la suite)
« En mémoire du père Emilio Escudero », un article décrivant la célébration qui a eu lieu le 2 novembre à Sikasso, où le père Escudero a passé pratiquement l’intégralité de sa vie missionnaire en Afrique. (lire la suite)

– Dans la rubrique « Témoignages »
« Ma première expérience de congé » : Alex Manda, notre confrère Zambien travaillant à Korhogo en Côte d’Ivoire, vient de revenir de son premier congé et nous partage son expérience. (lire la suite)
« Oser vivre la rencontre à Lusaka ». Jean Baptiste Todjro, stagiaire togolais en Zambie, parle de ses diverses rencontres avec Maria ; une femme bien particulière. (lire la suite)

– Dans la rubrique « Justice et paix » :
« La dernière lettre du diocèse de Ghardaia », qui se penche entre autres sur le divers problèmes vécus par les personnes qui cherchent à émigrer vers l’Europe. (lire la suite)

– Dans la rubrique « vu au sud – vu du sud »
« La ronde des petits métiers », un article paru dans le dernier numéro de « Voix d’Afrique », et qui raconte comment pour survivre en Afrique, il faut faire preuve de beaucoup d’imagination. (lire la suite)

– Dans la rubrique « Maisons de formation »
« Dans la même fraternité à Abidjan » : comment les étudiants déjà bien engagés sur le chemin vers l’engagement définitif vivent la fraternité avec ceux qui commencent à découvrir qui sont les Missionnaires d’Afrique (lire la suite)

Surgery of Didasio Mwanza in South Africa

By Missionaries of Africa - Southern Africa Province (SAP)

On November 14, 2013

In News

I had a car accident on the 17^th May 2011 on my way from Bamako to Gao in Mali. I was lucky to be taken immediately to Bamako. A fracture on the spine at the level of the neck was diagnosed and the doctors did what they could to keep it stable. I stayed in Bamako for treatment and moved back to Gao in November 2011. But, the Provincial Council of PAO thought it wise to bring me back again to Bamako where I could receive medical attention if needed since I was still experiencing pain.

I was therefore appointed to Korofina Parish where I could continue my physiotherapy treatments which was reducing my discomfort. At times, the pain was stronger, mostly at night. Doctors recommended me for further medical attention and a time of rest. So, in April 2012, my request was well receive by the Provincial Councils of PAO and SAP.

I was back to Zambia in June, 2012. Meanwhile, I felt a bit better and I was asked to give a hand in the Formation House in Balaka while still on treatment. I arrived in Balaka in October 2012. I spent one academic year which was a blessing for me. Then, I asked the Provincial Council if I could go for further medical attention as the pain was persisting. I could not sleep well. The request was accepted and I flew to South Africa on the 20^th July 2013. I got my first appointment two days later.

The first diagnosis was quite revealing. I had a fracture on the base of the odontoid with 50% anterior displacement of the odontoid peg on the body of Cervical 2. It was a life threatening fracture. According to the doctor. Such fracture are supposed to be operated upon immediately or at least within a week. My case has become very complicated. They did not know what to do. They were puzzled on how I could have survived. Each movement was a mortal risk. I could have just fallen down or received a simple shock on the neck and that would have been death.

After a thorough research on my case and days of anxious waiting, I was called back to the hospital. I was informed that it was vital that I should undergo a cervical surgery which was quite delicate. If the injury would have been new, some screws to hold the vertebrae in position would have been enough. But, because of being an old injury, a bone grafting was needed. The chance of success was only 50%.

Before the operation on the neck, I spent 48 hours under traction which happened to be the most painful part of the whole process. Finally, the operation took place on the 29^th July. The bone for transplant was taken from my hip which was an operation by itself. Then, the bone was fixed on my neck putting the vertebrae together attached with wires.

I was discharged after eleven days but remained under medication. I also had physiotherapy for some weeks. During this time, the M.Afr community in South Africa, particularly in Edenglen, was a blessing for me. I felt a brotherhood care and love. It was very therapeutic for me. I also had a chance to be with my extended family members who are living in Johannesburg. I had a visit of my aunties and uncles each weekend. As a matter of fact, I have a little cousin who spent weekends with me. So life was not so boring and lonely. God has His own ways to help us to bear our crosses.

I am getting back to normal slowly. My neck is still a bit stiff, but the pain has reduced significantly. I will never move it as before but, over time, I can get back about 70% percent of its normal movements. For me, this surgical operation marks the end of a long suffering and the beginning of a new life. This event taught me to value each minute and to live it meaningfully with love and gratitude. The scars behind my neck and my back will always hold a story.

God bless.

Didasio Mwanza, M.Afr

Third Graduation Ceremony of DMI Catholic University in Zambia

By Missionaries of Africa - Southern Africa Province (SAP)

On November 13, 2013

In News

The Third Graduation Ceremony of DMI took place on Saturday the 9^th November in Lusaka, Zambia. The invitation was sent by the Very Rev. Fr. J.E. Arul Raj, the Chancellor of DMI-St. Eugene University.

The new Catholic Campus looks impressive right from arrival. The University is offering various programmes ranging from Diploma to Bachelor in Engineering in Computer Science, Science in Information Technology or Electronics and Communication, Business Administration and Commerce or Social Work, Arts or Education.

About 85 enthusiastic young women and men got their Degrees on this Third Graduation Ceremony. Among other guests of honour, the Honourable Professor Nkandu Luo, Minister for Chiefs & Traditional affairs gave and outstanding speech encouraging all new graduates to pursue their studies even further.

In his inaugural speech, The Chancellor explained that the first mission of the University is to support the capacity building of the youth and the nation by offering employable education. To achieve this, DMI emphasizes on the value of discipline, family values, work ethics and good practices.

DMI wants to become the best destination for science and technology studies in Zambia. Moreover, DMI has embarked on a virtual education initiative in Zambia, the first in this kind in Africa, to bring education in towns and villages aiming more specifically on girl’s education. DMI St. Eugene University will also offer scholarship for women. Top two student’s girls from every school in Zambia will be given 50% scholarship on the tuition fee for the whole period of their study in DMI starting from the next academic year.

Under a scorching sun tempered by white tents, the Third Graduation Ceremony ended with the National Anthem conducted by the Police Band and a meal for everyone.

Note: DMI has University Campus in Tanzania, Zambia, Malawi, South Sudan and Ethiopia. DMI Group of Institutions in India amount to seventeen Campus from which financial assistance is collected for opening new Campus in Africa. DMI is also present in Brazil.

For other news about DMI: La jeunesse zambienne

http://sergestarno.com/2012/09/22/la-jeunesse-zambienne/

SAP Provincial Council in Woodlands, Zambia

By Missionaries of Africa - Southern Africa Province (SAP)

On November 10, 2013

In News

The SAP Provincial Council ended on Friday the 9th November with eleven representatives from Malawi, Mozambique, South Africa and Zambia.

Were present: Christopher Chileshe, Provincial, Karl Kälin, Provincial Treasurer, Oswald Mallya, Delegate Superior Zambia, Jaya Bordhan Mrutyun, Councillor Zambia, William Turnbull, Delegate Superior Malawi, Michel Sanou, Councillor Malawi, Timothée Bationo, Delegate Superior Mozambique, Richard Ujwigowa, Councillor Mozambique, Philippe Docq, Delegate Superior South Africa, Chrispin Vungwa, Councillor South Africa, Robert Tebri, Rector Lechaptois First Phase in Balaka.

After the meeting, the confreres signed the Code of Pastoral Conduct for Pastoral Agents as a sing of commitment with the duty to explain it to all M.Afr communities.

A barbecue ended the three day and a half meeting prepared by the staff of Woodlands. All confreres and MSOLA Sisters come for this occasion. The rain disturbed the gathering but did not prevent festive and animated discussion.

Diaconate of Emmanuel Mubanga Chisanga in Jerusalem

By Missionaries of Africa - Southern Africa Province (SAP)

On November 10, 2013

In News

Frederick Limo N’Getich (Kenya), Emmanuel Mubanga Chisanga (Zambia), His Beatitude Msgr. Fouad Twal, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, Vincent Kyererezi (Uganda), Bonaventure Bwanakweri (Rwanda)

It was on the 30^th of April, Feast of Our Lady of Africa, that I found myself and my companions in the basilica of St. Anne’s well surrounded by friends who had come to witness our Missionary Oath. The Mass was presided over by the Superior General of the Society, Rev. Fr. Richard Kuuia Bawoobr who was visiting the community at that time. Such a day had always seemed to be in a far distance; a day that belonged to the future. However on 30^th April, the future and the present embraced and culminated in a ‘Yes’. It was a day full of emotions and trust in the Lord who asks us to stand in His presence and serve Him. For nine years now, I have journeyed with the Missionaries of Africa and the journey has not always been smooth and easy. Just like anywhere in life, there have been times of joy and of sorrow but in all circumstances the Lord has always stood by me. If I made my final and perpetual commitment, it is basically because of the trust I have in the Lord. My vocation story has less to do with me; rather it has more to do with the Lord.

By Emmanuel Mubanga Chisanga, M.Afr

FULL TEXT

SAP Blog administrator apologies for being so late to publish this beautiful reports. There is a say in French which states: “Mieux vaut tard que jamais!”

: Frederick Limo N’Getich (Kenya), Emmanuel Mubanga Chisanga (Zambia), His Beatitude Msgr. Fouad Twal, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, Vincent Kyererezi (Uganda), Bonaventure Bwanakweri (Rwanda)

: Signature of the Oath

: Emmanuel Mubanga Chisanga

Death of Father Gérard Lebel

By Missionaries of Africa - Southern Africa Province (SAP)

On November 10, 2013

In News

“I am the resurrection and the life.

He who believes in me will still live, even if he dies. ” John 11, 25

Father Julien Cormier, Provincial of the Americas, informs you of the death of

FATHER GÉRARD LEBEL, M.Afr.

He died on November 9, 2013, in Sherbrooke (Canada), at the age of 84 years of which 56 of missionary life in Zambia and Canada. The funeral service will take place on Tuesday, November 12, 2013 at 11h00 a.m., at 100 rue du Cardinal-Lavigerie, Sherbrooke.

LET US PRAY FOR HIM AND HIS FAMILY.

Missionary journey of Fr. Gérard Lebel:

14/12/1958 Curate at St Mary’s, Fort James Diocese, North Rhodesia
03/06/1959 Curate at Chassa
17/10/1959 Curate at Naviruli
08/05/1961 Curate at Minga
07/11/1961 Curate at Nyimba
06/12/1965 Curate at Chikungu, ChipataDiocese, Zambia
06/07/1966 Superieur at Lumimba
01/01/1973 Curate at Nyimba
01/01/1976 Curate at Minga
09/03/1980 Session and Retreat in Jerusalem
01/01/1981 Curate at Kalichero and Cikowa
01/01/1984 1^st Cycle Ottawa, Riverdale, Canada
27/10/1984 Curate at Msipazi, Chipata Diocese, Zambia
01/02/1989 Curate at Nyimba, Chipata Diocese, Zambia
01/10/1995 Curate at Minga, Chipata Diocese, Zambia
07/05/1997 Session + 60 and Sabbatical. Monte Cucco, Roma
19/04/1999 Nomination to ANA (PE.99/6), Canada
01/09/1999 Accueil Montréal, L’Acadie ANA/Canada
01/11/2005 Residence Lennoxville
09-11-2013 Back to our Father in Heaven, Sherbrooke, Canada
May his soul rest in perfect peace.

Global sisters leader: Pope calls us to move, make a difference

By Missionaries of Africa - Southern Africa Province (SAP)

On November 5, 2013

In News, Publications

Sr. Carmen Sammut, the president of the International Union of Superiors General, is seen in her office at the union’s Rome headquarters Sept. 30. (NCR photo/Joshua J. McElwee)

Pope Francis is calling on Catholics “not to remain static” and to choose how they can make a difference for others, the leader of a group of 600,000 Catholic sisters and nuns around the world said.

The pope, Sr. Carmen Sammut said recently, is giving the world “great hope.”

“It’s like a window opening toward something new, where the church is more seen as people of God, not just the hierarchy,” Sammut said. “It’s fascinating. You want to know what’s going to happen next.”

FULL TEXT

My first experience of home leave, by Alex Manda

By Missionaries of Africa - Southern Africa Province (SAP)

On November 1, 2013

In News

“The apostles returned and reported to Jesus all they had done and taught. Then he said to them, “Go off by yourselves to a remote place and have some rest”. Mk 6, 30-31

Jesus invited his disciples to rest after days of preaching his message in Galilee. I needed the same after three years of mission in Korhogo, Ivory Coast.

I enjoy sharing news with my family members, friends and confreres after such a long time of absence including my experience in Ivory Coast. I listened to them about their own life experiences here in Zambia. My resting was not simply sleeping but meeting different people at different places. It was also very comforting.

I had a chance to pay a visit to some of my confreres in Zambia. I saw their various ways of doing their ministries such as Kasama, Kitwe, Serene, Woodlands, Kabwata and Fenza. I met some of my brothers diocesan priests, very welcoming, in my Parish in Kaputa as well as the Cathedral in Kasama.

I attended the closing celebrations of the year of faith at Nakonde Parish. It was a wonderful celebration with teaching on faith and sketches about the first missionaries who came to Zambia. The video below shows in a colorful way how Father Joseph Dupont, known as Bishop Motomoto, healed the wounds of chief Makasa, event that sparkle his missionary encounter.

I praise God for guiding me during this time of resting. May the Good Lord bless me and all confreres in our places of mission!

Alex Manda, M.Afr, back to Korhogo, Ivory Coast.

See the following video on YouTube:

Play of the arrival of Motomoto in Nakonde, Zambia