Accompanying Refugees and meeting with Catechists
By Fr. Victor Awity, SJ
Peace of Christ and Greetings from Pastoral Department – JRS Adjumani Project.
Some refugee settlements in Adjumani District have been facing significant challenges due to the ongoing displacement and instability within the settlements. Many residents are struggling with trauma, loss, and the difficulties of adjusting to life in a new environment. The goal of mission in the Society of Jesus is to save souls, of course beginning with yours and that of others as well. Spiritual direction and Spiritual conversations are some of the pastoral avenues of accompanying our Refugee brothers and sister in their challenges but also to know God and to familiarize themselves with Jesus Christ our Lord. This usually happens during pastoral visit to the families in the settlements or and after Sunday mass.
Catechists also, as spiritual and community leaders, play a crucial role in providing pastoral care, guidance, and support to these vulnerable populations. However, they often lack the necessary support, resources, and regular opportunities for reflection and renewal, which are essential to effectively carry out their duties.
The absence of structured and consistent engagement with catechists has led to gaps in pastoral care, with many catechists feeling isolated and overwhelmed by the demands of their work. This situation hinders their ability to provide the much-needed spiritual and emotional support to the refugees, affecting the overall well-being and resilience of the community. On the 25th of September i had a preparatory meeting with all the six catechists and women leaders from the three refugee settlements under the pastoral care of JRS Adjumani. This meeting took place at the premises of JRS office in Adjumani. The Pastoral office is planning to conduct a three-day training and an ongoing formation to all our catechist and women leaders in the settlements. There was a celebration of the Eucharist and a good breakfast.
Karibuni Sana JRS Adjumani.