It has been just over two months since we arrived in the Central African Republic (C.A.R.). From the moment we landed, we were warmly welcomed at the airport by the Lay Comboni Missionaries (LMC) and the priest in charge. Since then, we have been journeying together in faith and service. In Bangui, we have been able to familiarize ourselves with the country as the Comboni family shows us around—from the bustling markets to the beauty of the capital. We have also had the privilege of accompanying the MCCJ (Comboni Missionaries) as they celebrate Mass in various locations.
A significant highlight of our stay in Bangui was the opportunity to meet with the three Comboni Bishops currently serving in C.A.R. Speaking with them gave us a deeper sense of the history and the strength of the Comboni mission, making us feel even more connected to the larger family we are now a part of.
Overcoming Barriers
Initially, the language barrier felt like a “blocking stone” between us and the local community. However, we are striving daily to bridge that gap. We are currently taking intensive French lessons while staying at the provincial house in Bangui, so that we can communicate more effectively and serve more deeply in the months to come.
Easter in Mongoumba
Because we arrived during Lent, the LMC invited us to celebrate Easter together as a family. During Holy Week, we traveled to Mongoumba, the heart of our mission. It felt wonderful to finally step onto the mission grounds and reconnect with the LMC and the local community.
The journey was filled with anticipation. When we were later asked about our impressions, we realized we each saw the experience through different lenses. Despite these different backgrounds, we were united by the lovely welcome we received from the Comboni Missionaries and the people of Mongoumba. Celebrating Easter with the local Christians was a gift; the worship, the dancing, the singing, and the vibrant sense of togetherness reminded us that, indeed, Christ has risen!
Even though the community in Mongoumba speaks the local language, Sango, which remains a barrier for us, the people still found ways to understand our presence and intentions. Each day offered a new opportunity to learn a few words from them, proving that connection often goes beyond spoken language.
Service at the Clinic
After Easter, we stayed an additional week to assist our teammate, Elia, as she prepared to return to Portugal. She managed the clinic and spent her final days guiding us through the operations, showing us the coordination with the neighboring hospital and the vital work being done with the Pygmy community and the wider population.
The experience at the clinic was deeply moving and, at times, difficult. Witnessing patients arrive for wound dressings and treatments allowed us to literally feel their pain. It was a somber, humbling moment for both of us to witness the raw reality of the mission and the work that lies ahead. While we focused on the hospital during this visit, we look forward to engaging with other mission activities soon. We also had the unique opportunity to participate in a Laudato Si’ workshop conducted for the Pygmy community.
Looking Ahead
Returning to Bangui was emotional, as it meant bidding farewell to Elia. It is difficult to say goodbye so soon, and as we watch her go, we are struck by the reality of the task ahead. Realizing that the continuity of this vital work now rests with us is both a humbling responsibility and a challenge we are preparing to meet with all our hearts.
To honor her time here, we held a small party to celebrate her many contributions. While it was hard to see her leave, we are deeply grateful to God for all she accomplished and we send her off with many blessings.
As we continue our French lessons, we are preparing for the next chapter. We know that learning Sango is our next great task, especially as Teresa will also be returning to her home country soon, passing her responsibilities on to us.
We are still learning from one another and growing as a team. Although the path is challenging, our hearts remain focused on the mission and the people we are here to serve.
Greetings to everyone, and peace be with you all.
Neema, CLM in CAR
