A Fresh Start: Settling into A New Home with an 8-Day Retreat
By Linus Tigiti, SJ
On October 29, 2024, we gathered, our bags packed and hearts full of eager anticipation. The move from the bishop’s house to our new Community House wasn’t merely a change of address—it was a bold leap into the unknown, a moment of profound transformation that invited us deeper into our shared mission. For Fr. Manyanga, SJ, this transition became a key part of his own spiritual journey. Upon his arrival, ready to climb the mountain of prayer, he began an 8-day retreat—a sacred time of prayer, reflection, and renewal that would culminate on November 4, 2024. Rooted in Ignatian spirituality, Fr. Manyanga’s retreat mirrored the shared journey we were all undertaking.
We weren’t just moving to a new house; we were embracing a new chapter—one defined by simplicity, service, and community. Though the house was new and empty, it felt like a blank canvas, awaiting the brushstrokes of brotherhood, love, and a united purpose. Every room seemed to whisper a quiet reminder of our deeper journey into Christ, calling us to live not just in a house, but at the heart of a living community where transformation and grace awaited at every turn.
This was more than just a move; it was the beginning of something far greater—a space where we would grow together in faith and mission, living out our vows in a shared life of prayer and service.
Bonga, The Land of Origin
Bonga, located in the lush highlands of southwestern Ethiopia, is a land of remarkable beauty. Surrounded by mist-covered mountains and vibrant forests, it is the birthplace of Ethiopia’s world-renowned coffee. Bonga is where coffee was first discovered, growing wild in the dense forests. It is also home to thriving tea plantations, which produce some of the finest leaves in the country. During a visit to the Wushiwushi tea plantation, the Jesuits experienced firsthand the rich heritage of tea cultivation in the region. Walking through the plantations, we marveled at the deep cultural connection between Bonga and these iconic beverages.
Progress of the Construction of the School
The construction of the school is progressing rapidly, with the contractor fully committed to completing the work on time. The four buildings under construction include the administration block, library, laboratory (for physics, chemistry, and biology), and a classroom block. The buildings are currently at the beam stage, with a 28-day curing period set to begin from the day the concrete was poured.
