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Live from the Congo

On September 20, 2010, during a simple and touching ceremony, Sr. Jeanne was sent in mission for the Congregation outside her native island of Madagascar (PDF file)

Live from the Congo
Sr. ZOLY Tiana Jeanne

Three months in Kinshasa seem a short time yet rich in experience.  For Christmas and New Years, I want to share with you what I am learning from the people of Kinshasa. 

“Welcome to the most beautiful country in the world, Sister” a Congolese military told me.  For him, this is true in spite of the steps that need to be taken regarding the poverty plaguing the majority of the people: insecurity, children sorcerers and the lack of cleanliness in the Capital, to name a few of the problems. The Democratic Republic of Congo is beautiful and very rich. In spite of all the poverty, I see a lot of money, dollars everywhere that people can see at the money changers along the roads.

May there be peace in Congo!

With the people of Kinsasha, I am learning that a noisy discussion is not always a fight but only a different means of communication. I am gradually getting used to hearing daily arguments between drivers, attendants, venders, also along the road, between police and drivers or passengers. Surprisingly, in the end, an agreement is reached. I am no longer afraid of the rusty vehicles used for public transportation, where we sit on very tight wooden benches with open doors, small windows and very tense drivers. The welcoming faces of the people reassure me. 

Peace to everyone!

I am learning that the God of the Africans is nowhere, yet he is present everywhere. Stores have names such as: Grace of God, God Gives, Daughters of Jesus, Everything Comes from God, God is Great, Have Mercy, God Almighty, God is in Command.

May the One who is coming dwell in the intimacy of their homes!

The loin-cloth “pagne” that the people wear are most striking and remarkable. These are very colourful, and are adorned with religious pictures of Jesus, Mary, God the Father, the Holy Spirit, the Saints, the leaders of the Church. Everyone is wrapped in them from head to toe. On every occasion, people change their suit of clothes and dress up in this elegant manner for a celebration. I am confused between what really goes on and the poverty I heard about. I hope their way of dressing is a reflection of their faith. Many artificial things that are sold here are quite popular, like hair, flowers…etc and even cream that changes the colour of one’s skin.

A way to present people is to name their diplomas. And diplomas are celebrated. People with whistles and instruments parade cars around the city; they powder their faces and serve an imposing snack. I wonder why all this fuss?

With the people of Kinshasa, I learn that respect for people begins with the taking into account of their culture and their customs. From one country to another, I understand that I have to find my identity and I am not to compare, but to remain in a spirit of openness and freedom and to welcome the other to the point of following the same tom-tom rhythm while singing in a group. There are no books or sheets with words to follow but that does not hinder the singing and the dancing. The parish is very well organized. There is even a welcoming server who takes charge of waking up the faithful who fall asleep during Mass.  
My first Christmas in Congo is marked by this very solemn celebration where all participate in some way. Finally, I would like to thank you for your wishes and your prayers. I am well and all is well with me because God is with me.

HOLY AND HAPPY NEW YEAR 2011

Sr. ZOLY Tiana Jeanne

 

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