Profiles of our Lay Missionaries
Brendan Berine
Brendan from Roscommon took up an assignment as a carpentar/Joiner in Mbarara, Uganda.
He writes "Greetings’ from Uganda !!
Well I have been here since September 2009 and I must say it’s been fun. I work on a building project for St Francis Family Helper Programme which is building a counsellor training centre. It is very important to the area. They provide help and support to a wide range of people, including sex abuse victims, people suffering from HIV, poverty, war trauma, dysfunctional families, alcohol and drug abuse.
They also have a tailoring school and a child
sponsorship programme.
My main work is trying to keep a high standard of building work, seeking out good quality material and tools (it can be a nightmare some days) and teaching carpentry skills. The lads here are great fun to work with, always up for a good laugh which makes the day fly. More recently we have had a team of Irish builders come. That has been a massive help with one of our projects. The people here can hardly believe the kindness and really do appreciate all that’s being done.
I have met some truly great people here from all walks of life. Extraordinary people with no other agenda other than to help those in need. Some have dedicated their whole lives to helping others.
When we’re not working hard and need time out, there is plenty to see and do. One of my favourites is to go to the parks and see the wildlife. It’s amazing to see the BIG FIVE in their natural habitat. The scenery is beautiful with some spectacular views and hill walks.
I can say that this experience has changed my life (for the better). Some people have very little and yet somehow are happy. I have never had as little but have never been so happy. It’s all new to me!! To mix and chat with these people has showed me a different way of life. With the help of God I can integrate some of these ways into my own life. I would encourage anyone thinking of doing volunteer work overseas to just go for it. You may just find what you are looking for!!
Viatores Christi | 8 New Cabra Road Phibsboro | Dublin 7
Tel. 01-868 9986 | info@viatoreschristi.com