The travellers visited a number of Catholic agencies including the Ruben School, Ruben Medical Centre, Kurt Fearnley Centre, Mary Rice Centre for handicapped children, Women for Women Centre, an Advocacy Centre, St Joseph’s Home for the Destitute, Br Beausang School Embulbul and Youth and Health Clinic programs.
This is what some of the participants had to say about the trip:
“The immersion is a significant personal and professional opportunity which further develops a sense of personal spirituality, leadership, interpersonal skills, inspiration, and engagement with those impoverished and disempowered. Our hope is that each participant will become an agent for change in their own community and motivate others to support those less fortunate in Australia and overseas. Michael and I enjoyed observing the growth of participant’s every time and it is a joy for us to share the experience with those seeking some answers to questions in life, its meaning, and our place in the world.” – Alison Slattery, Immersion Leader
“As we set off for Africa none of us could really articulate what was awaiting us at the end of our 32-hour journey. The sights, sounds and smells that met us in Nairobi provided a stark realisation that we weren’t in Oz anymore. As with any trip, it was the people who shaped my experience, with both my fellow pilgrims and the people we
met enlivening my time.
“Seeing the work of the people we met was humbling, inspiring and daunting all at once. For me it was truly seeing Jesus in 2018, walking the streets of Kibera or Mukuru slum, connecting with people through compassion, empathy, hope and love. From the young people who run a youth group, to the fathers who manned the gates of schools and the teachers and principals, all of whom felt moved to respond to a need within their community.
I am so grateful and blessed to have shared this time in Kenya. It was an awakening of my heart, eyes and mind and is something that will shape my spirit for many years to come.” – Veronica McLoughlin – Principal of St Dominic’s Centre, Mayfield
“Kesheni 2018 was an amazing, inspiring and life-giving journey for me. Yes, confronting but also sobering to see the smiles and happiness of these wonderful Kenyan people who make the most of their daily lives with what they have, not with what they want.
“Our group bonded well and looked after each other day by day. I found it enriching to know colleagues and new people on another level. The opportunity to see firsthand the varied and numerous ministries catering for the local people was extraordinary. The sense of welcome and appreciation for our efforts and donations was even more extraordinary!
“Our third week was very fulfilling with great satisfaction and a sense of achievement with the Early Learning Centre renovation project. The reaction of the children along with Br Frank O’Shea and staff was a sight to behold! A life experience that will stay with me forever. Asante sana!” – Leigh Peacock, Principal of St Joseph’s Primary School, Kilaben Bay