IMPACTS OF THE MISSIONARY VISIT TO MAMBONE

(Part 2)

Despite being the work of the Spirit, it was hard to leave our accommodation, having to leave the usual (communities) was an odyssey, but when we arrived, our vision changed.

It was a unique, uplifting, unforgettable experience which had a strong impact on us:

• The welcome of the families towards us, like real children with all the care, attention and details.
• Many women and some men left their jobs and came to the village every day, after walking great distances to accompany us.
• The celebrations we held early in the morning before leaving gave us a sense that the mission we were about to carry out was from God.
• The thirst for God shown by the people expressed in their attention and interest in listening to us.
• We visited the homes of Christian and non-Christian families, and many families felt relieved by our presence and as we passed some asked for prayers and blessings.
• We met many widows living alone with their children and some struggling women cried as they shared their pain and suffering.
• Everyone was left with the impression that they had had a living experience. Above all, it made an impact to hear the stories of the lively, simple and hard-working people. Being able to enter people’s homes and share their lives with them and announce to them a God who saves.
• We felt that the people felt a visit from God in their lives, during the sharing of the Word of God and the blessing of their homes.

We would like to thank the CIRMO Inhambane Delegation for giving us this unique opportunity. The experience was positive, and we all felt like real missionaries. Our joint vision as a synodal Church and as Religious Life in the Diocese of Inhambane is a strength and this memory will never fade from our lives.

Inhassoro, September 2024

Sister Maria Mulima