This month I had the pleasure to welcome a new Maryknoll Lay Missioner to Kenya. Her name is Judy and I already feel like I've learned much from her. She brings with her years of experience in nursing in rural Bangladesh and a deep spirituality. I've learned a few yoga stretches that I hope will continue to stretch me slowly both physically and spiritually into who I am called to be. Judy will be studying Swahili until April with another Maryknoll Lay Missioner, who arrives in early February from East Timor.Mike, who had just arrived in Mombasa for a short visit this week, showed us new places in Old Town.
We treated Judy to a Swahili-style meal and learned about the traditional coffee pot, which was carried from place to place with hot coals burning underneath.
The tour had its sobering aspect, visiting a site used in the slave trade.
To top of the weekend, we met friends of Susan from her time in Sudan and I really enjoyed a long walk on the beach.
This month I attended the Maryknoll Society (the Fathers & Brothers) Africa Regional Meeting in Nairobi. I'm kneeling in front, third from the right. It was an honor to be there with these guys who have dedicated their lives to serving others. This year marks 100 years of mission for the Maryknoll Society
This meeting with the Fathers & Brothers was a good chance for me to make a few new friends and deepen ties with those I already knew.
And for those who have seen many foot shots and participated in them over the years ...
In Swahili, the word used for welcoming someone at the airport is kumpokea - or to receive them. Receiving Judy into our community last week reminds me of how much a gift it is that we are and can be to one another.
Welcome everyone!
