Hit the Ground Running

Our first stop in South Africa was to the Pretoria home of our good friend, Fr. Masilo Selemela. Our annual visit to him always includes a meal at a nice restaurant. This year was special because it was a celebratory lunch to mark his appointment as the new Auxiliary Bishop of Pretoria.

Immediately afterward, we made the drive to St. Brendan’s where we were greeted by several Bakhita girls – it was the second celebration of the day.

The warm welcome activity continued the following day as all the young women who grew up at Bakhita Village and are now part of the Bakhita Tertiary Program came together to re-unite in sisterhood. They also have one-on-one conversations with Maggie regarding their status in tertiary education, work, and family life. They range in age from nineteen to twenty-eight and each one has a story. Before returning to their homes, they receive a beautiful gift bag prepared by a very special donor from the United States.

On Monday morning, we addressed the entire St. Brendan’s school at their assembly. The 750 learners were an energetic bunch and happy to see and hear us. Among the student body are twenty-three Bakhita girls who are receiving life-saving education, food, clothing, and shelter because of your loyal and generous donations.