Fr. Provincial's visit to Maban
By Nicodemus Mutunga, SJ
One African nation has a famous proverb: “A visitor has the ripest tobacco.” The year 2024 began with various “ripest tobaccos,” including blessings, consolations, and even desolations. The term “ripest tobacco” signifies a visitor’s unique and crucial contribution to the existing norm. Fr Provincial Kizito Kiyimba paid us visit here in Maban.
It was a joyous and happy occasion to welcome Father Provincial, who arrived with renewed energy and zeal to meet his men and visit the works and the people of God in Maban. On the first day, he visited one of our catechism classes, emphasizing zeal and commitment to following and finding Christ. Additionally, he explored the area where the community had provided land for the Jesuits to pioneer and introduce education, a crucial requirement in Maban.
On the second day, the Provincial visited Gendressa reception centre and Kaya refugee camp, where new arrivals from Sudan are received and relocated. He concluded the day by celebrating Mass for the JRS staff, delivering a touching homily that emphasized Arrupe’s vision of reaching out to the less privileged in society. It was a call for anyone bearing the Jesuit identity to choose whom to touch or follow, drawing inspiration from Jesus’ example of healing the suffering and bringing the ruler’s daughter to life—those whom society tends to neglect.
On the last day, the Provincial began by celebrating Mass for the companions, providing an opportunity to join him in celebrating his birthday. The occasion featured a performance by our small choir, singing him a birthday song. Each Wednesday, JRS staff commence the day with a coordination meeting, starting with a simple physical exercise. The staff were moved to have the Provincial lead them in the exercises, leveraging his experience and expertise. After delivering closing remarks to the staff, he concluded his visit with a memorare with the companions.
Touching souls by breaking the barriers
In the heart of our community, the desire for education beats strong, but the reality is that many of the individuals who registered for English classes here in Maban find themselves unable to begin due to the critical shortage of space and resources. In a world where education is often considered the key to unlocking doors of opportunity, this shortage becomes a barrier, leaving aspirations unfulfilled and potential untapped. The touching part of it is the diversity of students starting from old to young. I am very much moved by the commitment and eagerness to learn by five expectant mothers in one of my classes. Despite their condition, they walk every day under the boiling sun and along dusty roads from far distances just to not miss class.
The struggle is particularly breathtaking when we consider the physically challenged children, hidden away in the shadows of their homes. Often overlooked and underestimated, these children yearn for the chance to learn and grow just like their able-bodied peers. Yet, their potential remains dormant due to the challenges imposed by a society that has not yet fully embraced inclusive education. One of the missions of JRS here is to Identify such children and educate the parents on the disadvantages of listening to the community and hiding these children. JRS then provided psychosocial and physical therapy to such children.
Education is not just a classroom; it is a gateway to a brighter, more inclusive future. We are all ambassadors of ensuring that every person receives their right. It is a call to open our eyes to the hidden potential in the physically challenged children and the people yearning to have knowledge. JRS helps such groups to write a narrative of hope, progress, and empowerment for every individual, regardless of their abilities or circumstances.
