A Joyful Gathering in Likoni
When young missionaries gather, something beautiful happens laughter echoes louder, stories stretch longer, and the bonds grow stronger. That’s exactly what we experienced during our Mill Hill East Africa Young Members’ Meeting held in the warm, breezy coast of Mombasa/Likoni. It was more than just a meeting it was a reunion of hearts on fire for mission.
We kicked things off with a recollection, because let’s be honest, sometimes ministry pulls us in every direction and we forget to breathe. The recollection was a calm pause, helping us to recentre, reconnect, and remember why we’re here in the first place. It was the perfect reset button before we dove into sharing and listening.
Enter Sister Immaculate, our guest speaker, who gently reminded us that “you cannot pour from an empty cup.” Her talk on Emotional Intelligence and Self-Care wasn’t just informative it was a mirror. We saw ourselves clearly. She reminded us that the mission continues only if the missionary is healthy body, mind, and spirit. Laughter echoed when someone whispered, “Time to stop surviving on biscuits and black tea!” But truly, her message landed deep.
Next up, Kang Linus took us on a missionary safari to South Sudan minus the mosquitos. His stories were moving, filled with challenges and moments of grace. They made us appreciate our diverse missions, and reminded us that no matter where we serve, we are part of one big, red-blooded Mill Hill family.
Fr. Hillary, our Regional Superior, didn’t just come with a message—he came with a presence. He applauded our efforts, acknowledged the realities we face, and most importantly, encouraged us to stay passionate and committed. His words were like a pastoral pep talk—reassuring, wise, and filled with good humour. He also hammered home the importance of self-care, echoing Sister Immaculate’s point with fatherly care.
What made the meeting truly rich was the sharing of experiences. From Kenya to Uganda to South Sudan, we all brought bits of our mission fields to the table. There were stories that made us laugh, and some that made us pause in prayer. Each one was a testimony to the power of faith and community.
We closed the meeting with deep appreciation: To Fr. Hillary, for championing the meeting with his unwavering support and presence. To the General Council, for granting us this opportunity to gather and grow. And of course, to each young member who made time to be present—physically and spiritually.
In the end, the meeting in Likoni wasn’t just about notes and speeches. It was about being together, recharging, and remembering that we’re never alone in the mission. We returned to our various fields not just refreshed—but recommitted, reconnected, and slightly more emotionally intelligent (we hope!).
Tujenge pamoja. One heart, many hands.
Sango Placide, MHM
