25 Years Presence in Senegal

On December 16^th, 2009, the Sisters celebrated 25 years of presence in Ndondol, Senegal. The three founding members of the community were present and other Sisters who had worked alongside the people at different times over the 25 years. There was  a great Eucharistic celebration in the parish church with a wonderful choir singing songs and hymns in Sengalese and French.

Sr Patricia, one of the three founding Sisters of the mission, spoke of the Sister’s initial reason for going there – because of water (referring to the wells that were dug by the Development project of which the Sisters were part). Once there was a reliable and safe source of water, many options were opened out to the people. It was felt that the image of water symbolized the presence and work of the Sisters.

From what was said by the many speakers at the Church, it is the Sisters’ kindness that has touched people deeply. They expressed their gratitude for the works the Sisters are engaged in – the ways that the local people have been educated through the Sisters’ collaboration in the local elementary “bush schools”, literacy work with adult women, work with catechists, public health initiatives etc.

After the church service, there was a drink and snack in the church yard and much laughter and rejoicing, in multiple languages, as people met up with one another after long or short times.