My first Sunday in Konni, we made it to the Catholic Mission. It is run by a group of priests called the "White Fathers". It's only a name, they're not necessarily white-skinned. They live in a group, with at least three priests/brothers.
Hugo, who spoke some English, showed us the chapel, which was small and simple.
The interior was not adorned with precious medals, but items important to the people of Niger, such as milo and millet (two major crops for the region). And the tabernacle (top photo) was simple, much like the houses of the people, not the gold we see in churches and cathedrals here in America.
Hugo, right, shares a drink with Jeanel. These priests were fantastic! We just showed up, unannounced on a Sunday morning. They were returning from a neighboring village and insisted we stay for a few drinks. THEN they insisted we stay for lunch. THEN they offered that we could use their flushable toilets! I thought I was in heaven!
This is the whole gang (well, them minus me). Hugo is on the left. I'm not sure about the fellow next to him. Then Jeanel. Then Victor. Then the guy from Rwanda, who lived through the genocide. We didn't have much time to chat with these fellows about their histories, but they were so vast. The guy from Rwanda probably has STORIES to tell about growing up in a war-torn country. One of the other priests is from Denmark (Hugo) and another from the Congo (I think...)
It's amazing to see these men, some from poor African countries themselves, who go to Niger to serve the people there.
The White Fathers have a school for women. Another morning, Patricia and I went there with Victor. Unfortunately, I didn't have all of my camera gear with me, so there are not photos of the experience. But they teach women to read and write, as well as have skills classes, like sewing and embroidery.
Their work is amazing and inspiring, and I have to admit, they're my new favorite foreign charity.
2 comments:
We do take what we have for granted here in the States. It is truly awesome that you were able to get amazing pictures to educate us what other cultures live day by day and what is the norm for them. I'm sure you made life long friends as well while over in Africa. Some day we are going to have to see more of the pictures that you don't post. Also loved the slideshow and perfect music you put to it. Chat with you later.
Tyff and Jeff
www.tjstudios.com
Loved to see and read about the differences of how our Catholic faith is practiced in Africa. It never changes, but the flavor is so beautifully practiced in the most basic of areas.
The slideshow was wonderful, as well. I enjoyed the music and really loved the picture of shoes in the truck. The colors in Africa are marvelous! Thanks, Karen.
Post a Comment