tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38093429474422846172024-02-19T18:33:53.323-08:00Diane Yonga In GhanaDiane Yongahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18379656175655281100noreply@blogger.comBlogger14125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3809342947442284617.post-1213894166979002722021-01-05T11:43:00.000-08:002021-01-05T11:43:04.059-08:002020: Where Did My Adventure Take Me?<p><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">I apologize for the sudden and complete silence after
my January 2020 blog.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">2020 has been a unique, unusual and challenging year
for all of us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mid-March I received word
from LMH that they were suggesting I temporarily return to the United States
during the pandemic for a variety of reasons:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>the ‘unknown’ surrounding the possible severity of the virus, the scarce
medical resources in the area of Ghana I was living in, and the fact that the
government of Ghana might possibly close their borders.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After some prayer and discernment, I decided
to follow the LMH suggestion and within a week of that decision, I was packing
my bags.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was told the return was meant
to be temporary, but that I should take any personal belongings that were
important to me should I not be able to return. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Two days before I was to leave, the President of Ghana
announced the closing of all schools the following day. Thus, the girls left SAGISS the day before I
did. Ghana closed its borders, including
the International airport, the day after I took off for the United States. It all happened in a flurry.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAmIRqidI1cX40eAFKW6yRnMWEqlaSxOLl3jJveOic6Amcr7u8-DYQWLkDXt5JzKUoFlWF3onElQUpT7rUJFPitEUUUaX3tC_q2FvoN075a2SLtYkNjI3kYW6gtMeRh3jvblwXz5jN9ik/s1024/LastBlog7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAmIRqidI1cX40eAFKW6yRnMWEqlaSxOLl3jJveOic6Amcr7u8-DYQWLkDXt5JzKUoFlWF3onElQUpT7rUJFPitEUUUaX3tC_q2FvoN075a2SLtYkNjI3kYW6gtMeRh3jvblwXz5jN9ik/s320/LastBlog7.jpg" /></a></div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">My son Paul picked me up at the airport and gave me his
bed to sleep in for a couple days. I searched
the web and found an Airbnb to stay in for a few weeks. When I left Ghana, I had thought I would be
able to see family and friends on my return, only to find everyone locked down
in their own homes, working their jobs from home, going out only for groceries. Churches were also closed; Mass was being
live-streamed. I was basically isolated
from everyone. This was not really what
I had envisioned on my return home.<o:p></o:p></span></p></div>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The night I arrived in the US, my son Joe and his wife
Alex, disclosed to me via facetime that they were expecting their first child
in November.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Exciting news in this time
of pandemic!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was at least one
thing to look forward to!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Q3WO0Jv9Nw9H_6M551OooNVK90LkFKhwKXPa_FvHyGlCkzJ2kYvvILjIE4BJspO3gSRmBSimql_wcW8bcjEZ-tRnr9FQk-1JAe4DNODSEDZ7HRXWGPaIK7IbHcDBYJXJpJfU9JdlgLQ/s1024/LastBlog9.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Q3WO0Jv9Nw9H_6M551OooNVK90LkFKhwKXPa_FvHyGlCkzJ2kYvvILjIE4BJspO3gSRmBSimql_wcW8bcjEZ-tRnr9FQk-1JAe4DNODSEDZ7HRXWGPaIK7IbHcDBYJXJpJfU9JdlgLQ/s320/LastBlog9.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Mid-May, I moved to my sister Gina and brother-in-law
Kevin’s lake home about 3 hours northwest of the Twin Cities. They have a nice, large home they were
willing to share with me. Little did
they know I would be there for 6 months!
The lake home was a beautiful, peaceful and restful place. We had some great sister bonding and I am
beyond grateful for their immense generosity.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWCd3Es55fgzLsTz1Sj3RxR3IwVR2RTq0kM6bdC-TT70zv1lvZvMHn1a4mW0pOl5mlh2VI4DJ_S7KqsWFOJOJDq5b7f-SM5Cu-WPrLIGaqWQhw18S4wDQpcHL1vLkSutQIt_3FJAjlW_s/s1024/LastBlog2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWCd3Es55fgzLsTz1Sj3RxR3IwVR2RTq0kM6bdC-TT70zv1lvZvMHn1a4mW0pOl5mlh2VI4DJ_S7KqsWFOJOJDq5b7f-SM5Cu-WPrLIGaqWQhw18S4wDQpcHL1vLkSutQIt_3FJAjlW_s/s320/LastBlog2.jpeg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgPLcQEYlfz6cYSO5CgjbyAYy4pTJyGZnPO_qDd04sq2OCD3bs0qlt3t5tdYViHHnqezez_crN5XCoZTKKWnBzrBAw4thmvqgW0EpD8A7s6QQImR2ce56PRioTY4klzWDgcxTz35mMmz8/s960/LastBlog5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgPLcQEYlfz6cYSO5CgjbyAYy4pTJyGZnPO_qDd04sq2OCD3bs0qlt3t5tdYViHHnqezez_crN5XCoZTKKWnBzrBAw4thmvqgW0EpD8A7s6QQImR2ce56PRioTY4klzWDgcxTz35mMmz8/s320/LastBlog5.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOrmINkh3BNen5TzJeCyS4O6_PLfA7x8BQm4YQ0MZljCOJey0k2sTErSbXC5DKQt8AU1IzEEk7sQHNehLr1EdBlbK3b5HBdv1S-Xz5bspOLmoNFuN_dO2QJ3_gWWc-FIwIvnfonCfCh3g/s2048/LastBlog8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOrmINkh3BNen5TzJeCyS4O6_PLfA7x8BQm4YQ0MZljCOJey0k2sTErSbXC5DKQt8AU1IzEEk7sQHNehLr1EdBlbK3b5HBdv1S-Xz5bspOLmoNFuN_dO2QJ3_gWWc-FIwIvnfonCfCh3g/s320/LastBlog8.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTTZxeK27j-PbqQCxTHSiMZfPhXbpIkSDCvNxbkDwE9Zo00AUzIbedBq05JFvUD50jsjCK97a_dzBVGpTaRWRXDMM4JISSBIho4LeXD_jlGiXC-LjqK2e1RMEnSOukSbARGM76JCrL3Wg/s1600/LastBlog13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTTZxeK27j-PbqQCxTHSiMZfPhXbpIkSDCvNxbkDwE9Zo00AUzIbedBq05JFvUD50jsjCK97a_dzBVGpTaRWRXDMM4JISSBIho4LeXD_jlGiXC-LjqK2e1RMEnSOukSbARGM76JCrL3Wg/s320/LastBlog13.jpg" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">In November, I returned to the Airbnb for what I
expected to be two months. I wanted to
be in the Twin Cities for the arrival of my new grandbaby and also to prepare
myself for my return to Ghana.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Ghana opened their international airport on September
1<sup>st</sup>. Shortly, thereafter,
Karen, my co-missionary in Damongo, announced her intent to return to Ghana in
early November. As my new grandbaby was
to be born in November, and with the holidays shortly upon us, I chose to wait
until January 2021 for my return. In
fact, the ticket was purchased for a January 7<sup>th</sup> departure. I started planning and purchasing the items I
needed to take with me. My excitement to
return to Damongo was palpable.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Mid-November came and my grandson was born, Remy
Sterling Yonga. He is a doll and I
treasure those special days when I can visit him, holding him in my arms. Being a Nana is very special!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinwtAqyNAZrTdfNGCetN0DC5SQ9dt7m5vsJjc-TPpOAhhy6xFlbbUiVgDJYlqbT_aFKGm6cLFKQaYSLUuGPz2897yur7j5cmvvG1LTYEAwflvgNmIQe7NTWJc0YT1OovIXQcisGU1MAWI/s640/LastBlog1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinwtAqyNAZrTdfNGCetN0DC5SQ9dt7m5vsJjc-TPpOAhhy6xFlbbUiVgDJYlqbT_aFKGm6cLFKQaYSLUuGPz2897yur7j5cmvvG1LTYEAwflvgNmIQe7NTWJc0YT1OovIXQcisGU1MAWI/s320/LastBlog1.jpeg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyOWnH47OuC967S2wkp464w0QH7aQAtbxJcs0nXmevsqyjydalSUREcI9u6J38J9YZXHXhp0ax82H2CaObXmuq2FVjr1Ko_ADQCD2K0bkXkNyehQtw8AoSBvbJ5oufDZuT7CQuNoj2P1Y/s1600/LastBlog10.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyOWnH47OuC967S2wkp464w0QH7aQAtbxJcs0nXmevsqyjydalSUREcI9u6J38J9YZXHXhp0ax82H2CaObXmuq2FVjr1Ko_ADQCD2K0bkXkNyehQtw8AoSBvbJ5oufDZuT7CQuNoj2P1Y/s320/LastBlog10.jpeg" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">As I continued preparing for my return, I received
some unfortunate and unexpected news. I
guess returning to Ghana was not what God had planned for me. A routine mammogram showed a spot which
needed some further testing. After
multiple further mammograms, an ultrasound and a biopsy, I was diagnosed with
breast cancer. I am fortunate that it
was caught early and my prognosis is very good.
However, it means surgery and radiation therapy, followed by hormone
therapy.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Timing was very tight, so it was a mad rush to sign up
for 2021 health insurance by the December 15<sup>th</sup> deadline, find an
apartment so I would not have to live out of my suitcase any longer (9<sup> </sup>months
of living out of a suitcase is plenty), and move my belongings out of storage
and in to my apartment by Christmas.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyJfcG4BniDklXG_QrIxQIbdJKPbtP97wjQc6k1JdT98KDQYOQLWWZzkqqqEbDNLHbFlE_EaUMwoxCWV1h-KAJGQTzczNY_FihV8vZQrTroARMzZkMPIDhUu4gifm8oVeKNHqyZmeOSpE/s2048/LastBlog4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyJfcG4BniDklXG_QrIxQIbdJKPbtP97wjQc6k1JdT98KDQYOQLWWZzkqqqEbDNLHbFlE_EaUMwoxCWV1h-KAJGQTzczNY_FihV8vZQrTroARMzZkMPIDhUu4gifm8oVeKNHqyZmeOSpE/s320/LastBlog4.jpg" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The pandemic has devastated the lives of millions
throughout the world. Ironically, the
United States has suffered much greater devastation by the pandemic than has
Ghana. As it turns out, my chances of
contracting the virus seem much higher here than they would have been in
Damongo. The positive news for me is that the pandemic brought me back to the
United States and as a result, the breast cancer was detected early. Had I remained in Ghana for the complete
three years of my mission, who knows how much it might have spread before it
would have been detected.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">However, now my three-year
mission has ended prematurely. There is a sadness in my heart. I felt called to the mission and I feel I
thrived there in many respects. I
experienced joy and peace during my time in Ghana. I feel truly blessed to have had those
fourteen months in Damongo, as teacher to those happy, helpful students; school
secretary to the headmistress and dear friend, Madam Pauline; and as
storekeeper to both teachers and non-teaching staff and students at
SAGISS. I treasure the friendships I
made. I treasure the experiences I
had. I am greatly appreciative of the
support given to me by Bishop Peter Paul, and the friendly welcome by the many
priests and religious.</span><br /><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDjucgNXeZYC7_waKZkC1U2MDU5Am4Cen6TA49iOCVmRBlhEIr2caRq8seyhMVS4bKJpyCLII6Fmt6JB5H4QdcaWkdikB5eADHjNPAscgSTdkpLRwFqELzcv0hBdNwbta4baa_fmtXrP8/s1024/LastBlog6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDjucgNXeZYC7_waKZkC1U2MDU5Am4Cen6TA49iOCVmRBlhEIr2caRq8seyhMVS4bKJpyCLII6Fmt6JB5H4QdcaWkdikB5eADHjNPAscgSTdkpLRwFqELzcv0hBdNwbta4baa_fmtXrP8/s320/LastBlog6.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcGxxLY0p0y9f_OCWOpNbZXptBSRT2kov2etNStXHB6Jx5omIDRhCbNGFmxJqB2_ColRzW-Apqpc23bPS5xl1nrk3ae6Z4ZaALUMOdfZqyp4zCqVB3InxGvGYu9Sm5E0h3amCOOEZ-yGQ/s1625/LastBlog14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1625" data-original-width="1301" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcGxxLY0p0y9f_OCWOpNbZXptBSRT2kov2etNStXHB6Jx5omIDRhCbNGFmxJqB2_ColRzW-Apqpc23bPS5xl1nrk3ae6Z4ZaALUMOdfZqyp4zCqVB3InxGvGYu9Sm5E0h3amCOOEZ-yGQ/s320/LastBlog14.jpg" /></a></div><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">As I reread the blog entries I wrote during those 14 months, I have very
mixed emotions. Smiles and laughter
remembering all the good times I had in Damongo and sadness at the realization
that my time there has ended. I know I
received more from my experience there than I gave. It was a true gift from God. It seems God’s plan for me is now taking me down
a different path. I have placed my trust
in God and I know He will be with me throughout my treatment for breast cancer,
drawing me ever closer to Him.</span><br /><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5eRwA_rh3y6hG4QZ0HHIzJZ1BbHyigJncqUV4_h4KZbWieNct8RvV_nH529CmPTE-4ffC8wwXGq57BYStpNI2Oa_3Z5m9o6onSQCdEnmkUeJwCM4tU0XAcR7kpCTTdLUM7TsZrwwTLyc/s1600/LastBlog12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5eRwA_rh3y6hG4QZ0HHIzJZ1BbHyigJncqUV4_h4KZbWieNct8RvV_nH529CmPTE-4ffC8wwXGq57BYStpNI2Oa_3Z5m9o6onSQCdEnmkUeJwCM4tU0XAcR7kpCTTdLUM7TsZrwwTLyc/s320/LastBlog12.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">My adventure will continue……………………. but no longer in
Damongo<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>and no longer being shared via
this blog.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thank you for following my
mission adventure and all your support via prayer and monetary donations over
the past two years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>May 2021 find us all
a bit more happy, a bit more holy and a bit more closer to God!<o:p></o:p></span></p></div>Diane Yongahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18379656175655281100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3809342947442284617.post-379122190626557962020-01-22T19:18:00.000-08:002020-01-28T11:10:55.314-08:00One Year<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
vividly remember the day my sons, Joe and Paul, drove me to MSP airport,
sending me off with their loving hugs and kisses.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As I turned and walked to the security line,
big tears filled my eyes and ran down my cheeks, knowing I might not see them
again for three years, as I set off on the first leg of my journey to Damongo,
Ghana for mission work.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">One
year later and I have so much to be thankful for!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">First
and foremost, I thank God!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I thank the
Father for putting the call to mission in my heart.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I thank Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, for
speaking to me through the people I am encountering on mission and I thank the
Holy Spirit for the gifts of courage, patience, humility, understanding and
peace that have helped me to maneuver through the differences in culture,
tradition, food, beliefs, and way of life.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnc4bxw18kD2L1-A5QjxVvGwxSpyiH354BoOubW2mK_9gSXXJmpKklS7Uenep-bcLbHH22EDqJEcLgSoUmAtBOaQcWTZtgfAbjGqDdbo4rNOAvsZ5m14u-4unUevTV7zLpFbOdLbVxr3s/s1600/Anniversary18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="399" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnc4bxw18kD2L1-A5QjxVvGwxSpyiH354BoOubW2mK_9gSXXJmpKklS7Uenep-bcLbHH22EDqJEcLgSoUmAtBOaQcWTZtgfAbjGqDdbo4rNOAvsZ5m14u-4unUevTV7zLpFbOdLbVxr3s/s320/Anniversary18.jpg" width="255" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">I am
so grateful for my children, in-laws and grandchildren:</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">for their excitement for me in taking the
major step in following my dream, their emotional support, their sacrifice in
giving up three years of family holidays,</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">
</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">eating brunch or dinner together, visits to the beach or going out for
ice cream, birthday parties, my homemade cinnamon rolls and French pancakes, or
just dropping by to say HI and catching up on each other’s lives.</span></div>
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</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtnnFeDmur7ydKmjNgpRVlxlEo1WOaGo5LzfdrbMA1OPSDGSlevl75lE6FXsWGq7V8TskVz2sfGMS5IYes50UoyhEqUNFbOOTHD5qImVAN-0WsnEePrlp_tziVzWjUFqFPPv70Ox2il6Y/s1600/Anniversary16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="720" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtnnFeDmur7ydKmjNgpRVlxlEo1WOaGo5LzfdrbMA1OPSDGSlevl75lE6FXsWGq7V8TskVz2sfGMS5IYes50UoyhEqUNFbOOTHD5qImVAN-0WsnEePrlp_tziVzWjUFqFPPv70Ox2il6Y/s320/Anniversary16.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh47TUEOW42Li1CAbDB9UnEFRRDpz-FqCkAgk3pkZJZBLCqxaKC_9wnmKFaVxwW78aHyenX6EXQ9K9Lo4vZNWM7E_XPnvzsZeJC3OrB_0sl_Giaq1X_pYktJNI4xmLLABqf_LWKV3LPWsc/s1600/Anniversary15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="755" data-original-width="1006" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh47TUEOW42Li1CAbDB9UnEFRRDpz-FqCkAgk3pkZJZBLCqxaKC_9wnmKFaVxwW78aHyenX6EXQ9K9Lo4vZNWM7E_XPnvzsZeJC3OrB_0sl_Giaq1X_pYktJNI4xmLLABqf_LWKV3LPWsc/s320/Anniversary15.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjc42H6quFPmLqMwhUha4udjrzJpWN3e20to4SA45iJ5QgwWZnK2I29zJyb5TK4nsimGiOJUYU3XjyIcBs3JVRrPwZe0ik9z1R8q7Jvz1SZKGsS2Ydhf8YkfeKYhznbIB0SpFRdNeQHMk/s1600/Anniversary2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjc42H6quFPmLqMwhUha4udjrzJpWN3e20to4SA45iJ5QgwWZnK2I29zJyb5TK4nsimGiOJUYU3XjyIcBs3JVRrPwZe0ik9z1R8q7Jvz1SZKGsS2Ydhf8YkfeKYhznbIB0SpFRdNeQHMk/s320/Anniversary2.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPovZa4x6XbLDd35gDbJUXvscPtRgfUI1_OrAjIyUEUsyJdtSE9e1RriyyVFGek-k-G4RliJr1Y4c8-GOgKSfbKWBEFqxuS-PWBx9v1NUjfPYhXi554acI6jrFIDjXX1SLGSMzas_Y93k/s1600/Anniversary3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPovZa4x6XbLDd35gDbJUXvscPtRgfUI1_OrAjIyUEUsyJdtSE9e1RriyyVFGek-k-G4RliJr1Y4c8-GOgKSfbKWBEFqxuS-PWBx9v1NUjfPYhXi554acI6jrFIDjXX1SLGSMzas_Y93k/s320/Anniversary3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT3gpbHmSeb4AqG96XYDFBcHFd8TirvmbCpJrYgFQe_VqaeP8tztkC-LobGICXVFkDu2udK_tThvIuIlDtovgE-Nr73uimJTcVyy1Xla9bNbSMKR7q1DuWzK6pE3zp8ENjZeOgwY-7Rtc/s1600/Anniversary4.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT3gpbHmSeb4AqG96XYDFBcHFd8TirvmbCpJrYgFQe_VqaeP8tztkC-LobGICXVFkDu2udK_tThvIuIlDtovgE-Nr73uimJTcVyy1Xla9bNbSMKR7q1DuWzK6pE3zp8ENjZeOgwY-7Rtc/s320/Anniversary4.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
thank Lay Mission Helpers Association, for accepting me into their program, for
providing me with a comprehensive formation and training program, preparing me spiritually
and culturally. I am thankful for the
classes that helped me to understand myself, who I am and how I interact with
others. I thank my co-missionaries and
LMH Veterans who helped me through formation and for ongoing support throughout
mission by sharing stories and experiences. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit4vAPnGI-fbKZSlsCb9GyHyIWX1xvSWkUqnAJnKKQCLnbqiyRAs4RGpXkMt9DFedmtNJTiVdghUnMX8o_qErwNTS3pEsnurair5CBiJW-1rdBDmm3-T8gI1NpTDaxRxgzuVENIE1L2ic/s1600/Anniversary13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit4vAPnGI-fbKZSlsCb9GyHyIWX1xvSWkUqnAJnKKQCLnbqiyRAs4RGpXkMt9DFedmtNJTiVdghUnMX8o_qErwNTS3pEsnurair5CBiJW-1rdBDmm3-T8gI1NpTDaxRxgzuVENIE1L2ic/s320/Anniversary13.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">I
can’t express adequately, how grateful and thankful I am for my co-missionary,
Karen Hunka, who is here in Damongo with me. She has helped me navigate through
this first year – which I have been informed is typically the most difficult
year of the three.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">We experience
together the different types of food, the tribal languages, cultural
differences, extremely dry, hot weather, large and numerous bugs and insects,
tiny ants that seem to invade everywhere, and the lizards that decide they want
to make our living room their home. Karen is always available when I need some
one to talk to or to run a problem by.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">I
can count on Karen for her creative ideas, hard-work and generosity.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNoWKo_23s9bPi3TYeRP6FguinuMBOQM_Y53Di4yEuKMYHtVFxJnbaH_2jDnFtLGwbO9CJ-sRqdJ4T_XD3QodwA7ZoFiQfC7I7iGwS4CoCNE_5zRHsv8dLiDwKDRPb8Nf4VNoHWZI_lvg/s1600/Anniversary11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNoWKo_23s9bPi3TYeRP6FguinuMBOQM_Y53Di4yEuKMYHtVFxJnbaH_2jDnFtLGwbO9CJ-sRqdJ4T_XD3QodwA7ZoFiQfC7I7iGwS4CoCNE_5zRHsv8dLiDwKDRPb8Nf4VNoHWZI_lvg/s320/Anniversary11.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMZS5kpZtDuvWdUySQKD8BHetgHhF6hFkyZkNtFws0cTCxiZjaaX5TQyKDtqyUJWDA48t-rkFMOK0fWPMGD1k_zmA6ZiZqt6YmltWVJh7-yZCthhK1xhWRFgZw3rFSL-OJhw3VxGI4iIM/s1600/Anniversary12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMZS5kpZtDuvWdUySQKD8BHetgHhF6hFkyZkNtFws0cTCxiZjaaX5TQyKDtqyUJWDA48t-rkFMOK0fWPMGD1k_zmA6ZiZqt6YmltWVJh7-yZCthhK1xhWRFgZw3rFSL-OJhw3VxGI4iIM/s320/Anniversary12.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">I
thank my siblings, nieces and nephews, aunts and uncles and cousins for their
love and communications via Facebook, email and letters.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">I thank them for their many prayers and unconditional
love and for believing my mission is a call from God and supporting me
throughout, though it might not be something they would ever do.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXcq1y4Qo8NhQm4BbGiflPuVUyKQzbHpbE-fOeLKRjRAIRubuq65ZV6Gj_4Xbb99dBczTgQYAMcN0KQoA0QPSvbPuFft4wOb7JecTqkEk0uoBNnTsOior8YBJX8WV7dDgJVeKWk8D0L8w/s1600/Anniversary14.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXcq1y4Qo8NhQm4BbGiflPuVUyKQzbHpbE-fOeLKRjRAIRubuq65ZV6Gj_4Xbb99dBczTgQYAMcN0KQoA0QPSvbPuFft4wOb7JecTqkEk0uoBNnTsOior8YBJX8WV7dDgJVeKWk8D0L8w/s320/Anniversary14.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">I
thank my friends:</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">my Church friends, my family
friends, my work friends, my neighbors, my Cameroonian community friends, my
Facebook friends.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">I thank my friends for
understanding why I had to leave and follow God’s call.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">I thank them for their spiritual and
emotional support – via prayers and for their social support via Facebook posts
to keep me abreast of what is going on in the United States.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
thank everyone who has helped to support my mission financially, through
donations to LMH and sending of care packages.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
thank the people of Damongo for welcoming me with open arms, open minds and
open hearts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I thank the Diocese of
Damongo, Bishop Peter Paul, many priests, religious brothers and sisters for
their friendship and spiritual guidance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I thank the Bishop for providing me with a comfortable home, for placing
me at St. Anne’s Girls Senior High School (SAGISS) as a teacher, secretary and
storekeeper.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEQjYne1xwwDjUvhjPH_yD3DAyA9jeyr8UQAVqPbsctdW7Qs-gZBfwSDFqjhPlRK75GFENSuqzsYzeR4I3KACzty6dJV8jnjp0gjsZ89bjhqT2FBf-1sA5dWzJ2HaW6dyom8DnRj3qYdU/s1600/Anniversary8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEQjYne1xwwDjUvhjPH_yD3DAyA9jeyr8UQAVqPbsctdW7Qs-gZBfwSDFqjhPlRK75GFENSuqzsYzeR4I3KACzty6dJV8jnjp0gjsZ89bjhqT2FBf-1sA5dWzJ2HaW6dyom8DnRj3qYdU/s320/Anniversary8.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
thank Headmistress Pauline, who is not only my boss but also my friend who
explains the “Ghanaian way”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>to me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I thank my fellow teachers, the non-teaching
staff (bursar, matron, security, cooks, laborers, drivers) who support my daily
life, and of course, I love the wonderful, sweet students who are always
smiling and who make me smile.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiptX2q-uvlnkrdf-3hfq2BYBrunx7OarH4cFpGhuN1iujarT_qFqHHIBr51hCHECftMsIU6jkkLKzCBV6xsUPs6pUykMPkqgjnVCQu3nIvi-G7kLstayAB55MNkNc7pfZW9FDHxctGrl0/s1600/Anniversary10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiptX2q-uvlnkrdf-3hfq2BYBrunx7OarH4cFpGhuN1iujarT_qFqHHIBr51hCHECftMsIU6jkkLKzCBV6xsUPs6pUykMPkqgjnVCQu3nIvi-G7kLstayAB55MNkNc7pfZW9FDHxctGrl0/s320/Anniversary10.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh060ijULma1fhuv0NvJehEteKBpBOSsyKoGsJmDkAxRFAKl5yEKKcx3gkTfQcPsmpV4hRb2x9GBKS1TqOvikNUkG0qZoaU9v1T0s1rzong2dD4phRYBLQn-DjMWe_UXPnF1k1iez77JvQ/s1600/Anniversary9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="986" data-original-width="1600" height="197" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh060ijULma1fhuv0NvJehEteKBpBOSsyKoGsJmDkAxRFAKl5yEKKcx3gkTfQcPsmpV4hRb2x9GBKS1TqOvikNUkG0qZoaU9v1T0s1rzong2dD4phRYBLQn-DjMWe_UXPnF1k1iez77JvQ/s320/Anniversary9.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgqkGDv4FmDRv_SIEhac8hqu9XcRQ2t6r2yzac69RCKU_q9K0gFG2bYOT1iMCy90xvCXozoLCcUHMKPoG97eAYFakoHiA7P4wWj4SHJSpBKKYqMAR9QNKUtVCtDVpoJnnWVPhhCGT8ajE/s1600/Anniversary17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgqkGDv4FmDRv_SIEhac8hqu9XcRQ2t6r2yzac69RCKU_q9K0gFG2bYOT1iMCy90xvCXozoLCcUHMKPoG97eAYFakoHiA7P4wWj4SHJSpBKKYqMAR9QNKUtVCtDVpoJnnWVPhhCGT8ajE/s320/Anniversary17.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">It
is amazing to think that one-third of my time in mission in Ghana has already
passed.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">I have had so many new
experiences.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">I have encountered many
wonderful people; they have welcomed me and have accepted me, allowing me to
become more comfortable in their homeland. I have seen the beauty of God’s
creation here in Damongo – the diversity in the landscape, the animals, the
people.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">2020
is a new year and I have dedicated this year to the Blessed Virgin Mary, my
spiritual mother.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I will strive to grow
in my relationship with her so she can guide me to make decisions that will
help me grow in holiness, humility, purity and love.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She will draw me closer to her son, Jesus
Christ, so I can radiate His light to those I encounter.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtXwQit2xE72HeOFDbVe831WcNm1JgRUMr8ObbXEq8IL44dTAvKvnisV9BkPqiJmmyXI3tZg5iduhzElkDwEsS0bqwbY9-LDBhuvB_V9wLA5vaRcMHJ4EeybjcdvL6JOdeasGvvDsJaxc/s1600/Anniversary5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtXwQit2xE72HeOFDbVe831WcNm1JgRUMr8ObbXEq8IL44dTAvKvnisV9BkPqiJmmyXI3tZg5iduhzElkDwEsS0bqwbY9-LDBhuvB_V9wLA5vaRcMHJ4EeybjcdvL6JOdeasGvvDsJaxc/s320/Anniversary5.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Year
2 ……the adventure continues……</span><br />
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<br />Diane Yongahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18379656175655281100noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3809342947442284617.post-18523840479995977832019-12-16T15:01:00.000-08:002019-12-17T17:19:27.785-08:00End of Year Events and Reflection<br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">In 7
short weeks, my first year in Ghana will have been completed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hard to believe!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So many new experiences; so many blessings
from God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">October
brought with it new neighbors!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Francis,
Paulina, Anne and Nathan moved in to Mary Shaw’s bungalow next door.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">It
is wonderful hearing the sound of young children laughing!</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Nathan bangs on our gate door, calling
“Granny, Granny, Granny”, when he wants to visit.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">The other day, he started calling me “Granny
Diane!”</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Very cool! </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">We kick the soccer ball in the courtyard,
which always brings back great memories of kicking the ball with Joseph and
Paul in their young years.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></div>
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<br /><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxXOk6Gkijpx6a5EkX6pfMlNIGcUl0-MlHkYO2kt1jNC5_JdmBclqKgkdgo7FobIufaK8GfLgNenG1TjCG0Ow' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">October
also brought my 60</span><sup style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">th</sup><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> birthday, which fell on World Mission
Sunday.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Saturday evening, Karen and the
girls planned a surprise birthday party for me, where all the girls sang to me
and we had jollof spaghetti and cake.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Sunday
morning, we travelled to Sawla to celebrate a special Diocesan Mass with Bishop
Peter Paul, where I was introduced to the packed church and specially prayed
for.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Lunch with the Bishop and a number
of priests and religious was enjoyed.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">We
closed out October, the Month of the Rosary, with a special Mass at the Grotto.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Francis
had some young men from the high school he teaches at come and dig us a garbage
pit.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Anne had to jump in before any
garbage was dumped in!</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">SAGISS
was also blessed to receive some special American visitors.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Carol Hofer and three of her friends, Dr.
Irene Allen, RoseAnn Morrow and Kari Green from Michigan, are with a group who
sponsor six girls’ education at SAGISS per year.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">They have been sponsoring the girl-child’s
education in northern Ghana for many years.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">
</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Carol taught at Damongo Senior High back in the 1970’s as a Peace Corps
volunteer.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">They educated the girls on
certain health and hygiene matters and gifted them with hygiene kits and
Rosaries.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">The girls greatly enjoyed
their visit, and welcomed them with some tribal dances.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Karen and I had a great time visiting with
people from back home in the United States!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">My
Food and Nutrition Form 1 class ended up with six girls.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">The
teacher for the Form 3 Food & Nutrition class ended up transferring to
another school, so I picked up the Form 3 class to end the term.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">There are only 3 girls in that class.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">It isn’t easy picking up a class in the
middle of the term, but we are managing.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">
</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">The girls are taking their end of Term exams and will be leaving for
Christmas vacation December 20</span><sup style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">th</sup><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Karen
and I spent a weekend in November in Tamale to attend a Diaconate
Ordination.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">The ordination was beautiful
and inspiring.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Seventeen men who will be
ordained priests in the next year came from both a Diocesan seminary and a
Divine Word Missionaries (SVD) seminary.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">
</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">We celebrated with two young men from the Diocese of Damongo, Rev.
Maclean and Rev. Clement.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">We
were excited to reunite with the SVD seminarians we spent the 12 day TICCS
Cultural program with a couple months earlier.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">
</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">See previous blog.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">The
weekend included a visit to a restaurant that served stone hearth baked
pizza!</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">I hadn’t had pizza since I left
the United States, more than 10 months earlier.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">
</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">I ordered the Hawaiian – pineapple and ham.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">It was totally delicious!</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">I ate the WHOLE thing!</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">So, so good!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Thanksgiving
came.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">I had to work that day.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Karen cooked us baked chicken, mashed
potatoes and gravy, stuffing, pumpkin bread and apple crisp.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">We topped it off with some sweet red wine.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">It was tasty!</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">
</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">It was definitely not our typical Thanksgiving; missing our families
even more than we do typically.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">However,
it was a day of Thanks!</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">I thanked God
for my family and their understanding and support for my mission, I thanked God
for the courage He provided me to follow His call to Ghana, and I thanked God
for the many graces and the mercy He has blessed me with.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Damongo Diocese WUCWO (World Union of Catholic Women Organization) Celebration was
November 29 – December 1.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My boss,
Headmistress Madam Pauline, is the President of the Damongo Diocesan Council of
Catholic Women (DCCW), so I was involved in some of the preparations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She made sure Karen and I bought our CCW
“cloth” so we could wear the uniform with the women from the various parishes
that gathered for the weekend at the Unity Center.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was a special weekend, meeting women from
many villages.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was surprising to me
that the majority of them did not speak English.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was a lot of communication done simply
by sharing smiles and laughs with one another!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">I
have been reflecting on my life here in Damongo and my relationship with God.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">The Liturgy here in Ghana is very lively and
upbeat.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Throughout my life, I have
encountered a number of different types of liturgy.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">The church we attended as a family when the
children were growing up, (Church of St. Gerard Magella in Brooklyn Park) had a
liturgy supported by modern Christian music, including piano, guitars and drums
rather than an organ.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">For many years, I
loved the music in that church.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">I
listened to popular Christian artists on the radio and in music videos.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">It was uplifting and gave me a positive,
sunny disposition for the day.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">It fit where
I was in life and in my spirituality at the time.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">As the years went by, at some point, that
Church was not providing me with what I needed.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">
</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">I needed quiet, reflective time before Mass – to pray and connect to
God, not people in the pews talking; I needed kneelers (which the church did
not have) during Consecration; I needed some solemnity, some reverence.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
eventually found my way to the Cathedral of St. Paul, which gave me what I was
yearning for.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The music took a 180°
turn.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Suddenly, I was listening to
choral organ music.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Church was quiet
and peaceful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There were numerous side
chapels with kneelers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They offered two
daily Masses – one in the evening that worked perfectly in to my work schedule.
There was incense, kneeling and reverence. In time, I met many wonderful,
spiritual, like-minded people and enjoyed time with them doing various service
projects.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I felt at home at the
Cathedral, it was like a family. But sometimes when we get too comfortable, God
decides it is time for something new.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">When
God called me to mission, I was praying the following prayer:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I wish that all I have be Yours, and I put
it in Your hands:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My soul, my eternal
salvation, my liberty, MY SPIRITUAL PROGRESS, my life my health, my family, my
possessions, my work, and whatever good deeds I can accomplish, so that You
will arrange these things according to your will.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
first time I said that prayer, I was actually scared to pray it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Could I actually trust God with all these
very important things?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Could I give up
control?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Could I accept God’s will in
these areas of my life, rather than my own desires?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Was I praying for something I would later
regret?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Would I be able to handle what
God decided to give me?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">My
SPIRITUAL PROGRESS.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sometimes, I wonder
if I have progressed spiritually since coming to Ghana. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I do
not doubt that by the time my three years is up, I will have grown closer to
God.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I trust God has a plan and as long
as I trust Him, I will be closer to the person he created me to be.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I really miss Eucharistic Adoration.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was such a blessing to be able to be in
the Blessed Sacrament Chapel with our Lord in the early morning hours – just
Him and me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I could talk to Him about
anything.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I could feel His
presence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Sometimes
I long for Eucharistic Adoration.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Sometimes I wonder how I could have given that up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was such a blessing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So wonderful, I can’t even put it into
words.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But then I remember the prayer –
I am putting my Spiritual Progress in God’s hands.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am trusting that God knows what He is doing
in my life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know God loves me so much
that He wants only the BEST for me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
wants me to know He loves me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even
though I might not understand how or why certain things happen in life, I know
in the end it is all for my best.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As
long as I let God be in charge of my eternal salvation, my liberty, my
spiritual progress, my life, my health, my family, my possessions, my work and
good deeds, then I know all will be fine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>God loves me and wants only the best for me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He can do so much better for me than I can
myself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I trust Him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I will continue to strive to turn over
control of my life to God, because “no eye has seen, no ear has heard, no heart
has conceived the things He has prepared for those who love Him”. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">“Only
in God is satisfaction to be found….. I am allowing God to bring me the most
thrilling plan existing, one I cannot imagine……<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
adventure continues……<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />Diane Yongahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18379656175655281100noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3809342947442284617.post-43205272124226464382019-10-04T13:56:00.001-07:002019-10-07T10:50:07.270-07:00White Woman<br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
2019-2020 academic school year has begun.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Girls trickled in slowly at first, but most all of our returning students
are now on campus.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have 16 new Form 1
students so far, though the list of those who signed up to come was over 40. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have been told it is common in Ghana for
first years to arrive up to a month after the start of the year.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;">I
will be teaching the Form 1 Food and Nutrition class again this year.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Out of the 16 students, only two are Home
Science Program students, so my class is currently very small.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">We are expecting quite a few more in the next
two weeks.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Pray they are able to find the
money to come.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Being a Catholic school,
it is a fee-paying institution, and many families find it very difficult to
come up with the necessary money to send their daughters to senior high
school.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Education of the girl-child in
northern Ghana is still lagging behind other parts of the country.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><br />
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJZGuzigcLjs_HO-1k5K-uo1noaHIhwcOwmt8akXnQxFeYXyHSMG0QVYbcDwdY3fMVof8R_WNU21TbiaK-YC7ufV3OqQzF7ISXFP9kN2ZrsELKXJmwmYRncdRcnp4VkoD0bX96MYSdbf0/s1600/WhiteWomanBlog6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="897" data-original-width="1179" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJZGuzigcLjs_HO-1k5K-uo1noaHIhwcOwmt8akXnQxFeYXyHSMG0QVYbcDwdY3fMVof8R_WNU21TbiaK-YC7ufV3OqQzF7ISXFP9kN2ZrsELKXJmwmYRncdRcnp4VkoD0bX96MYSdbf0/s320/WhiteWomanBlog6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Along
with teaching the one class, I am also the school Secretary and the school
Storekeeper.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">These three functions keep
me very busy.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Outside of the school, the
Headmistress is the President of the Council of Catholic Women Association, a
world-wide organization of Catholic Women.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">
</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">She has talked Karen and I into joining and helping her with a big
Diocesan-wide event coming up at the end of November.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">More news on that at a later time.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">It
is currently October, both the Month of the Rosary and this year, the
Extraordinary Month for Missions.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">We
started October 1</span><sup style="font-family: "times new roman", serif;">st</sup><span style="font-family: "times new roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">, the Feast Day of St. Therese of Lisieux – (The
Little Flower – St. Therese of the Child Jesus), co-patron of Missionaries
along with St. Francis Xavier, with a Mission Rosary and Mass at the Grotto in
Damongo.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">It was a beautiful way to start
the month.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">My
long-time friend, Augie Ambe, came upon my blog via Facebook last month and
spent three hours going through all of posts from the beginning, reading,
watching videos and looking at the many pictures.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">He enjoyed it and asked me to continue,
however, he also had a question for me.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">
</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">“How does it really feel “standing out” as a white woman in Africa?”</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Those
of you who know Augie, are not surprised he would delve in and ask this
question.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">First,
for me, I have been a part of a large Cameroonian community in the Twin Cities
for many years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was not unusual for
me to attend a large Cameroonian gathering, and be the only white person (or
one of just a couple white people) at the event.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Therefore, it is not an altogether a new
experience for me to be a white woman standing out amongst Africans. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">What
is different for me, is that in Africa, it is an every-day, all day
occurrence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is no way around it or
out of it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here I am definitely a
minority, I am an “outsider” and it is readily apparent by simply glancing at
me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
question really poses two – even three issues – being WHITE in Africa, being a
WOMAN in Africa, and being a “WHITE WOMAN” in Africa.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then there is the whole “STANDING OUT” idea.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They are all very interesting topics.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
oftentimes forget that I am WHITE in Africa.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It is not really something I think a lot about. I oftentimes forget I am
a different color than those around me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Standing
out by being WHITE in Africa mainly comes to my attention when young children
are around.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Their expressions range from
big smiles, waiving and wanting to touch me, to looks of confusion, not really
knowing who this odd-looking person is.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The fact that people are noticing me – brings the fact I am white back
to my attention.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am typically in the
SAGISS compound during the week, so my whiteness really plays little into my
thoughts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is on weekends when I go to
town to Saturday market and Mass on Sundays that my “whiteness” come into play.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
have never felt discriminated against or felt treated badly because I am white
in the land of the black man.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The people
of Ghana, most specifically those at SAGISS, and those in the Diocese of
Damongo have treated me with honor, respect and kindness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sometimes, I have felt uncomfortable by the
fact that I was being placed in a position of honor when I really did nothing
to deserve it, other than come to live amongst them to spread the love of Jesus
Christ to them through relationship with them. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">There
are, however, other things that do make me uncomfortable or
self-conscious.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Those things are
LANGUAGE barriers and RELIGIOUS differences.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>These two things play a much larger role in how it feels to “stand out”
in Africa.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Living
in Northern Ghana, there are a large number of people who do not speak
English.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We are in Gonja land, and most
people I meet in the market or even the day laborers at SAGISS were not taught
English when they were growing up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Language is a barrier for me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
have never learned a second language, and at my age, I admit it is both a
struggle and not something I originally wanted to do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I liked the fact Ghana was English speaking,
just for that reason.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But a nation
having English as one of its official languages, unfortunately does not mean
everyone speaks it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Every
time I greet one of the day laborers, cooks, or security men at SAGISS, I
struggle to communicate effectively and it reminds me I am an alien in this
land.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Every time I go to market to buy
fruit, vegetables, bread, etc., it is a reminder that I am different and “stand
out”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
live in Damongo – which is Gonja land, yet the Diocese of Damongo is heavily populated
with Dagaari people, from the Upper West Region of Ghana.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then you can add in the Fra-Fra and the
Fulani and multiple other tribes and you have a myriad of possible tribal
languages to deal with.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It makes my head
spin, so I just smile sweetly and say ‘Good Morning’ or ‘Hello’ or give a big
wave.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhchJLnJMazlUf2gSk_XNvbjQAXCB2jFMzWb51REdkPih-SpzX87h_DNlSI5T9U3NwjxOqyfjlfGAVI93Yj08t58NtWTa-glCAgakt9tgTKUIFKIouyp7VPosqjoQna9YV5ObSPNJDY46w/s1600/WhiteWomanBlog12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhchJLnJMazlUf2gSk_XNvbjQAXCB2jFMzWb51REdkPih-SpzX87h_DNlSI5T9U3NwjxOqyfjlfGAVI93Yj08t58NtWTa-glCAgakt9tgTKUIFKIouyp7VPosqjoQna9YV5ObSPNJDY46w/s320/WhiteWomanBlog12.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8pW2YOpEGSmM2ovCnVXQP7f54xspe6xs_Uu-x1eLWMgkIOnXm81xSQNyuxvDDzNTL00CMblCje4zKAJZsKuBgDCxGB4zUP7M9h57PuqW7lXyIAy1d_sxMmQfccSgv89hUxfMG2eBPc20/s1600/WhiteWomanBlog9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8pW2YOpEGSmM2ovCnVXQP7f54xspe6xs_Uu-x1eLWMgkIOnXm81xSQNyuxvDDzNTL00CMblCje4zKAJZsKuBgDCxGB4zUP7M9h57PuqW7lXyIAy1d_sxMmQfccSgv89hUxfMG2eBPc20/s320/WhiteWomanBlog9.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">Northern
Ghana is also predominantly Muslim.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">
</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">There are mosques everywhere – every little village has a mosque.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">With the Muslim culture, come some beliefs
regarding how men and women relate to one another that are very different from
our Western ways. (For that matter, many of the Ghanaian traditions are very
different than Western ways as well – in relation to male/female equality.)</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">As a white woman in northern Ghana, I need to
learn these beliefs and tradition to try and avoid unknowingly offending
people.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">These are the more difficult
things that remind me I am different from everyone else.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
have been in Ghana for 8 months and so far, I feel very welcomed by most.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have not felt discriminated against, but sometimes
I wonder if people take advantage of me in the market because I am from the
West and they believe that means I have money, so they raise the price for
me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nothing at the market has a price on
it, you ask what it costs and either pay it or try to bargain with them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have bargained a couple times, but usually
just pay the stated price.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">So
how does it feel “standing out” being a “white woman” in Africa?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">“Standing
out” makes me aware of the fact of how very important it is that I must represent
Jesus Christ, Christianity and the Catholic Church with actions that are kind,
generous and responsible, with honesty, integrity and courage, with
thoughtfulness and peaceful, loving intentions.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
adventure continues… God continues to work on me…transforming me……...<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />Diane Yongahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18379656175655281100noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3809342947442284617.post-22800635122002497332019-08-30T16:03:00.000-07:002019-08-30T16:03:20.463-07:00Summer Adventures<br />
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<span style="color: black;">I am back to share some of my
adventures from the past two months.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: black;">As the academic years started
winding down, we had one week full of cooking practicals. The cooking was
done in traditional kitchen setting for a couple reasons: first and
foremost, that is the method they will use for their cooking finals for the
WASSCE exams at the end of their third year, and secondly, we have no
electricity or running water in the practical room. I know nothing about
cooking with charcoal on a coal pot! I didn’t know how to cook the
traditional dishes - <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I hadn’t even
tasted most of them! How could I run these practicals? Therefore, I
had to enlist a couple other teachers to help us out. Indeed, the girls
all knew much more than I did. They were teaching me instead of me
teaching them! In the end, everyone enjoyed the experience and we all
learned something. Many of the meals I enjoyed, though there are a few
items that will take some getting used to.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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One day we were shopping at the
big outdoor market and I decided I wanted some material to have a Ghanaian
dress made for me. As it turned out, I was having so much trouble
deciding which material to buy, I ended up buying four different pieces of
material. I now have plenty of Ghanaian dresses to supplement my
wardrobe. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtY8VvWDz3JdTYlK9tuZDvJn0b8pitED6c8Y1XttuvCt6yMCWi2tEITxmch-sykA35lpJO1hxogLcfFnRMBqi385C7hP41-mjS334proRliedrsZToMoY22kJPaPsY7A1135hs788D2-M/s1600/SummerBlog7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1223" data-original-width="917" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtY8VvWDz3JdTYlK9tuZDvJn0b8pitED6c8Y1XttuvCt6yMCWi2tEITxmch-sykA35lpJO1hxogLcfFnRMBqi385C7hP41-mjS334proRliedrsZToMoY22kJPaPsY7A1135hs788D2-M/s320/SummerBlog7.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
July also marked the month that
Karen, my co-missionary here, celebrated a birthday. As it turned out,
the Matron (head of the kitchen) of SAGISS, Sister Agnes’s birthday is on the
same day. We celebrated by inviting a few friends over for dinner and
drinks. We had a good time entertaining. Oh, there was just one
side issue. As I was cooking, using some fresh red pepper, it was very
hot in the kitchen, so I used a handkerchief to wipe the sweat off, some pepper
seeds must have gotten on the hanky, because immediately my lips started
burning, I could feel them swelling, my face started turning a red color.
My face became very hot. It started working its way up my face and around
my neck. I ran to my room and took a couple benedryl They seemed to
stop the swelling and progression, but it took 24 hours before I was feeling
fine. I can tell you, I will NOT be cooking with those peppers anymore<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhh9Pe-g0PSvkuYokJbVonVdmcAclvfFOcENnL-sQwDY51VbWGWv-6PU7SzLAkWaxezSeJceLREhXUR9cgGTMM-6A_ber53LdNNlh7LFV18YgC_MWRkOZMPoTiYHRKF59GXjl_h-igWOk/s1600/SummerBlog14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="966" data-original-width="1288" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhh9Pe-g0PSvkuYokJbVonVdmcAclvfFOcENnL-sQwDY51VbWGWv-6PU7SzLAkWaxezSeJceLREhXUR9cgGTMM-6A_ber53LdNNlh7LFV18YgC_MWRkOZMPoTiYHRKF59GXjl_h-igWOk/s320/SummerBlog14.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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A week later, was the end of the
academic year. All of the girls left for home for 7 weeks until the new
academic year starts on September 13th. Sadly, it also marked the end of
Mary’s two-year Peace Corps volunteer mission. Mary was our next-door
neighbor and my mentor when it came to teaching at SAGISS and getting along in
Damongo. She shared what she had learned the prior 18 months, keys
about the Ghanaian education system, how they taught at the school, where to
buy necessities in Damongo and Tamale, how to take public transportation,
etc. She was an invaluable source of information and comfort to
me. Mary is from New Mexico and is a retired college professor with a Ph.
D. in Biology. I will miss her. </div>
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One of my co-teachers, Adam, is a
Muslim and he was married in early August. Karen, Sister Juliana and I
traveled to Tamale via public transportation to attend the wedding
festivities. It was my first Muslim wedding. We arrived at the home
of his parents where all the men were sitting outside under tents. No
women in sight, other than those of us from the school. We sat out with
the men for a while and visited and took some pictures, eventually meeting his
Mother and sister. He then took us on a walk down the street for maybe
6-7 blocks where we came to the house of the bride’s parents. Here, we
saw many women outside, whom we greeted. We were then led to a small room
where the bride was sitting, where we met her and were able to have pictures
taken with the couple. We then returned to the groom’s place and were
brought into the courtyard, where all the women on the groom’s side were
sitting. We greeted them, then were taken in a room where we ate and
presented our gifts to the groom. The bride’s family will bring her to
the groom’ s family in the early evening, even though the ceremony took place
in the mosque with a few family members earlier that morning.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNJOz8SUJelvugUwhKM_Jxkin6wm9igbiJItufkI3t5jFPcaPezOTtpit1KmsPcfQ6lcws8yGIricJjVrxEy3W0N9gTSODzDsputIbwNP6eoLf7d8V0m3LoebCLkYOfjv3djXEs7VNPt0/s1600/SummerBlog11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="966" data-original-width="1288" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNJOz8SUJelvugUwhKM_Jxkin6wm9igbiJItufkI3t5jFPcaPezOTtpit1KmsPcfQ6lcws8yGIricJjVrxEy3W0N9gTSODzDsputIbwNP6eoLf7d8V0m3LoebCLkYOfjv3djXEs7VNPt0/s320/SummerBlog11.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixa4T1nwEFb0jTSTh9jWDniEDjd8b0z3GhjJn5u59MueSLmAUL05yciWTH7JlJmBoTC8X5WcFLA8uKsAOKx96q8orqELPnnxgerFPNpE91bnhXtLbliWrU8YoPEv_okfj1uPHZBy7ILTw/s1600/SummerBlog12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="966" data-original-width="1288" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixa4T1nwEFb0jTSTh9jWDniEDjd8b0z3GhjJn5u59MueSLmAUL05yciWTH7JlJmBoTC8X5WcFLA8uKsAOKx96q8orqELPnnxgerFPNpE91bnhXtLbliWrU8YoPEv_okfj1uPHZBy7ILTw/s320/SummerBlog12.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The past two weeks have been spent
in Tamale at a place referred to as TICCS – Tamale Institute of
Cross-Cultural Studies. It is run by the Divine Word Missionaries (SVD)
and has programs to help missionaries and foreign seminarians and others coming
to Ghana to live for a period of time, to understand the culture and Ghanaian
traditions so that we can adjust and become integrated into their
society. It has been an eye-opening experience. We have learned some do’s
and don’ts. Karen and I, both being left-handed naturally, find a few
things very difficult as use of the left hand in Ghana is looked down
upon. We are trying to be sensitive to their beliefs, but often have to
remind each other – “use the other hand!!!!”.</div>
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<span style="color: black;">The setting at TICCS is very
beautiful and peaceful, with a variety of plants, flowers and trees. Our
class includes six seminarians two each from Kenya, Togo and Dem. Rep. of
Congo, Karen and myself.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi33J7114esDhHeywCZZhG9-rxT8nU-7SN_MRAyRRNuxu0_ilT0xNFLTkhR1tLH58xZrY2NZhaHC1RTiDqCOn3wZHvXT3gwslM26Zi3rtFCXlF8vHmb8B9zEFBl4oW2htlsECRs_v3qAl8/s1600/SummerBlog1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi33J7114esDhHeywCZZhG9-rxT8nU-7SN_MRAyRRNuxu0_ilT0xNFLTkhR1tLH58xZrY2NZhaHC1RTiDqCOn3wZHvXT3gwslM26Zi3rtFCXlF8vHmb8B9zEFBl4oW2htlsECRs_v3qAl8/s320/SummerBlog1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
We visited a couple
industries: a water purification and bottling plant (water sachets) and a
shea butter producing plant. We have shea trees on campus at SAGISS and
the girls love to eat them. However, the pit is used to make the shea
butter. It is a very interesting and time intensive process.
The plant we toured allows women who have gathered shea nuts to bring them in
and pay for the supplies they use to process the butter and assist in
selling it to provide income for their families.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwzFqTwzjfGVZ-jdlqbmdEocT5chR-fgaL-AQA8VN16h8IdUVx_JpLm-VWVWce_v3qGPau90djjVoBWrYqUG94XaJQeyBqK8sg0PnMOQUUQIgyyk-0M2ov59gNu6VQdVFbIlnPwoEE4cA/s1600/SummerBlog10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1040" data-original-width="780" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwzFqTwzjfGVZ-jdlqbmdEocT5chR-fgaL-AQA8VN16h8IdUVx_JpLm-VWVWce_v3qGPau90djjVoBWrYqUG94XaJQeyBqK8sg0PnMOQUUQIgyyk-0M2ov59gNu6VQdVFbIlnPwoEE4cA/s320/SummerBlog10.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Additional sensitive areas which
we in the West eschew, are the Ghanaian beliefs in use of Diviners (African
Traditional Religion) and the use of witch-craft. One afternoon, we
visited a Diviner. It is a practice/calling, passed down from one family
member to another. One must be chosen to be a diviner. Not just anyone
can choose to do it. The diviner we visited is a teacher in his
profession, but is a diviner as well. He explained the process of how he
was chosen to be the diviner; he showed us the special artifacts used in the
divination process (which are also handed down through the family), and
generally what they might mean. We were given a chance to speak with him
individually, but most of us, including myself, chose not to.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black;">The belief in Witch-craft in
Ghana, especially in the northern villages, can be very damaging to the women
who are accused of practicing it. In these villages, everything that
might be negative in a person’s life, must have a cause. If someone falls
sick, they blame it on the witch-craft of another. If someone dies,
someone else must have used witch-craft to cause it. We in the West look to
science to explain certain illnesses or deaths. Or maybe, the bad thing
is an “Act of God”. Unfortunately, in these villages, there is typically
an older woman who is accused of witch-craft. Once one is accused, they
run from the village in fear of having their life taken. They are often
threatened by beatings if they deny the accusations.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">Ghana, I believe, is the only
country that has some “witch camps”. These are areas set aside for these
women who are banished from their communities to live in some type of peace and
safety. We drove 3 hours to a town which allows these women to live
there. They come from a number of villages in the area. Once we
parked our car, we walked through some maize (corn) fields, through many
muddy puddles down a small path to where this “witch camp” existed. (I
apologize for the picture where it looks like I was overly concerned that my dress
not get wet! Not too modest! When I saw that picture I roared with
laughter! Hilarious!)</span> </div>
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Father Fanuel, who heads TICCS,
was once the pastor of the Catholic Church Parish in the town and he worked
hard at providing some better living condition for the women: a bore-hole
for water, latrines, solar lighting, more huts for housing. They still
struggle for their daily food, but it was amazing how well they lived together
in community.</div>
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<span style="color: black;">We were shown around their
community and met and talked with a group of women through an interpreter as
most did not speak English. I asked what they did for entertainment/fun/
to find joy and they responded that they pray and sing together. A couple of
the women proudly showed us the rosaries they had hanging from their
necks. Before we left, I asked if they would be willing to sing for us,
which they did. Singing and dancing go together, so we joined in the
dancing with them. It was a very emotional visit, one I won’t
forget. As I reflected on the situation these women were living through,
it hit me that they have had to give up their lives as they knew it. They
had accepted their plight, even though being wrongly accused. They were
praying to find joy. They are living their purgatory here on earth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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The information I have garnered
from both the classes and the experiences provided by TICCS is very
enlightening and has helped me understand some of the traditional practices
that we in the West find very unusual. I hope that now when I go back to Damongo
and SAGISS, I will have a new perspective that will help me in forming my
relationships with the people I encounter.</div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxLcEBUBsOGuXh6FPm7SnbwfeQ21Ssk2mAx0GgocR6IlMLpVqMsZBJqpw_W-5MA0ZrKL819Zm3T_iJbhV9veg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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<span style="color: black;">The adventure continues…….<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br />Diane Yongahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18379656175655281100noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3809342947442284617.post-25528408689252638862019-06-20T11:10:00.000-07:002019-06-20T11:10:06.541-07:00Rainy Season and Other Events<br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Greetings
family and friends!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I apologize for the
bit of delay in writing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Somehow, there
always seems to be something happening here at SAGISS to keep me busy. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
rainy season is in swing and we finally have some beautiful green in the
landscape!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The once, brown, dead wisps
of grass are nowhere to be seen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With
the green comes life!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is mango season
– delicious! However, along with the rain come more bugs and very big ones at
that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I found one in my bathing pail one
morning and another on its back – thank goodness – it could not move so I was
able to sweep it out of the courtyard. It had to be 3 inches long.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Luckily, our request for screen doors and a
fix to our ceiling which was open to the rafters, were both fixed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It has helped tremendously!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many fewer wasps, mosquitos and bats flying
around.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And now the neighbor’s cat is
unable to jump our internal gate to access our hallway – which is a relief as I
am allergic to cats.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So fewer cats, bats
and bugs to deal with. Yea!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However,
somehow the lizards/geckos seem to continue to find their way in.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">One
morning, while at work, we had a scare.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">
</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Someone saw smoke coming from the roof of our fourplex.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">I was told to come quickly, my house was on
fire.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">I ran to the house, (well, it was
more of a fast walk-run) which is about the equivalent of 2 city blocks from
the office.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">I quickly unlocked our gate
and the door to the kitchen, but it was fine.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">
</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">My next-door neighbor, Mary, had been out of town so we had to locate
the student who had her keys (to feed her cats) to open her door.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Sure enough, her kitchen was on fire!</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">The Fire Department came from town – probably
about 2-3 miles away, and put the fire out.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">
</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">They used a ladder in our hallway that had the opening to the rafters to
be sure the fire was out and wouldn’t spread to other units. (This occurred
before the aforementioned fixed ceiling.) My kitchen and bathroom ended up with
some water, but nothing a good cleaning couldn’t solve.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Some of the girls came and helped me empty
the kitchen, remove the water, clean everything top to bottom before returning
them to their proper places.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Poor Mary
still has no working outlets, though she has a new kitchen ceiling and bright
new paint on the walls. She shares our fridge.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">
</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">It appears the fire started at the outlet to her fridge, probably
over-night when we had a thunder/lightening storm.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Her two-year Peace Corps assignment is up in
August, when she will be returning to New Mexico.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">What a sending off gift.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Janice,
the Director of Lay Mission Helpers, came to visit and before she left the
students from my class sang for her.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">I
am including a short bit for your enjoyment.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">
</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">They just love to sing and dance!</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">
</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">So full of smiles!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">One
Sunday, a few weeks ago, the President of Ghana, Nana Akufo-Addo, came to visit
Damongo.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He instituted a new region this
year – The Savannah Region – of which Damongo was named the capitol city.
Damongo is hoping this will bring jobs and increased economic stability. He
showed up at Mass at the Cathedral and said a few words following Mass.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He is a Christian, though not Catholic.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">When
I was getting up to bring my offering, my little friend Angela, whom I met at
the Easter Monday picnic, came up to me.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">
</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">I gave her a big hello and hug, she and a couple friends walked with me
to give my offering and sat with me through the rest of Mass.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">I was excited to think she remembered me, but
then it hit me that, of course she remembers me, being a white woman here – one
sticks out!</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">One
day after school, while I was still working in the office, I saw some girls out
in the yard swinging some big knife-like objects.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">They call them ‘cutlasses’.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">They were cutting the grass with them, as
the mower had broken down.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">One girl was
watching them with a clipboard, so I got the feeling maybe they were being
disciplined.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Watch the video – and
listen closely -</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">kinda humorous!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Last
week was a bittersweet week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Form 3
students completed their WASSCE (West African Secondary School Comprehensive
Exams) on June 4.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That means they have
completed their formal Secondary School education.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They don’t get a diploma and graduate as we
do in the United States.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They must wait
for their grades to see if they have passed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>If they do well, they are eligible to go on for tertiary education –
such as a teachers’ college, nursing school or college/university.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If they do not do well, they can take some
private courses to study further and take the exams again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That evening we had a special event
commemorating their achievements and to bid them farewell, as they would be
leaving for home early the following day. Rather than a diploma, they were
given a certificate from the school.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
school’s student population went from 86 to 57 for the next two months.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Form 1 and Form 2 students will complete
their 3<sup>rd</sup> trimester at the end of July.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Summer vacation is the month of August.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Students return early September for the new
academic year; we are hoping for a large entering Form 1 class to boost our
population.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Well,
that is some of what I have been experiencing here at SAGISS.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">I continue to enjoy my time here.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">I hope you enjoy reading my story and seeing
the pictures and videos.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
adventure continues…..<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />Diane Yongahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18379656175655281100noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3809342947442284617.post-92063483261735035112019-04-30T13:26:00.002-07:002019-04-30T13:26:31.777-07:00Holy Week in Damongo<br />
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<span style="color: black;">Holy Week has always been very
important to me, especially the Triduum. Holy Saturday Mass
is always so beautiful, bringing new Catholics in to the fold. The past
four years it was spent at the Cathedral of St. Paul, a magnificent piece of
art, and filled with the Holy Spirit. I loved spending my time
there. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">This year Holy Week was spent in
Damongo, Savannah region in northern Ghana. I was a little concerned
about whether I would be able to get to the various Masses and how I would deal
with any differences from what I was used to. It was a different
experience, but I was not disappointed! As I said in an earlier
post, I am not bringing God to these people. God is already here!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">The Saturday prior to Palm
(Passion) Sunday, there was a Lenten Walk, which consisted of a Stations of the
Cross procession up a large hill. As I climbed up, there were places I
was wondering how in the world I would ever get back down! Once at
the top, there was a vocations talk, questions and answers about the Catholic
faith, multiple priests heard Confessions and the day culminated with a
celebration of the Mass. It was a very beautiful day! It started at
8 am and I think I got home around 2:30 pm.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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The following morning, Palm
Sunday, we all met at the site of St. Anne’s Church (the original Cathedral)
where we received our palms and had them blessed by the Bishop. We then
processed down the main street of Damongo, carrying our palms, singing, music
playing, to the site of the new Cathedral, which was opened in 2016, for the
Mass of the Passion. It was a beautiful and joyous site.<br />
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<span style="text-align: center;">Wednesday morning of Holy Week, we
had the Chrism Mass. All the priests of the Diocese were there to renew
their vows and for the blessing of the oils by the Bishop. There were
definitely not as many priests as the Chrism Mass at the Cathedral of St. Paul,
but it was a very touching Mass. </span><br />
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We attended Holy Thursday Mass,
where the Bishop did the washing of the feet. We arrived home around 11
pm. Bright and early Friday morning at 7 am, all the girls of SAGISS met
at the front gates and we did the Stations of the Cross down the dirt road past
our campus. I had never been down the road in that direction, so it was
interesting to see what lay beyond the school. We sang songs between
stations and probably walked 1 ½ -2 miles. On the way home, we prayed the
Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary. It was 2 hours of prayer and deep
contemplation of the passion of Christ. At 3 pm on Friday, we were back
at the Cathedral for the Passion readings and Veneration of the Cross.</div>
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Holy Saturday was very
special. It started with a huge, and very hot bonfire, which the
Bishop blessed and used the fire to light the Easter candle. The flame
from the Easter Candle was then disseminated among the large crowd of people
filing in to the Cathedral. </div>
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<span style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">The past three years, I had been
an RCIA sponsor at the Cathedral of St. Paul. The Cathedral of St. Paul would
often have 25-30 new members entering the Church on Holy Saturday. We
were excited here at SAGISS, as 6 girls from SAGISS were coming into the
Catholic Church! Some were of the Muslim faith, others were of different
Christian denominations and others were from a traditional African religious
background. It was a very exciting night for them and all of us here at
SAGISS. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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To my surprise, the Cathedral of
St. Anne in Damongo, had over 65 new elect! They crowded the
altar area, waiting for their turn to be Baptized and Confirmed. The
girls from SAGISS were over-joyed! It was another very late night,
arriving home about 2:30 am! Madam Pauline, the Headmistress, then
invited me in to her home for a glass of wine! I had to say yes to
celebrate the joy of Easter and the Risen Lord! My head did not reach the
pillow until after 3:20 am. I was feeling very happy and relaxed after
the wine and slept very well for 3 ½ hours when my alarm rang! I
had to be up at 7 am to be ready for the Bishop’s driver to pick me up for
Easter Mass at a neighboring parish one hour away. Bishop Peter Paul
wanted me to experience another parish in the Diocese.</div>
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<span style="color: black;">As we drove in to the church yard
of Holy Trinity Parish in Sawla, there were many, many people outside
waiting. The church was jam packed! As the Bishop left for the Sacristy
to prepare for Mass, the Pastor led me through the crowd of people, to a chair
of honor on the side of the altar near the musicians. I was sitting
directly in front of the drum set and behind the ambo. They were crowding
as many people in as possible; the doorways were packed with people. A
truck filled with plastic chairs came for those who needed to be seated
outside. The youth choir was seated in the front few rows near me and
they were filled with loud, joyful voices, praising the Risen Savior! A
beautiful sound and sight to behold!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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I thought 65 new converts to the
Catholic faith at the Cathedral of St. Anne was a lot, but this parish had 120
people being Confirmed by the Bishop and receiving their First Holy Communion
on Easter morning. The night before, at their Holy Saturday Mass, they
were all baptized. They lined the center aisle, filing in
two-by-two. It seemed to be a never-ending line of people eager to be
Confirmed and later to partake in Holy Communion.<br />
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<span style="color: black;">Following Mass, I was invited to
have Easter dinner with the Bishop, two priests and two
seminarians. I mentioned I had been an RCIA sponsor for three years
and explained the program lasted 9 months, meeting once per week. They
were astonished, because each of the people baptized and confirmed in their
Diocese goes through RCIA, but it is a three year program, meeting not just
once per week, but oftentimes, twice per week. The main difference
appears that they allow anyone not born into the Catholic Church nor baptized over
7 years old to be a part of the program. So not all 120 Elect were
adults, but the ages ranged anywhere from 10 years of age to 80+ years
old. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">The Easter Holy Week festivities
did not end with Easter Sunday. We had a Mass at the Diocesan Secretariat
Unity Center at 10 am Easter Monday. It was followed by a picnic, where
people brought food to share, vendors sold food and drinks, and there were
games to be played. Families, friends, young and old were celebrating together
this wonderful day. I was popular with the younger crowd, as I handed out
lollipops and cold water and rice with red sauce. One sweet little girl
named Angela was the first to approach me, and she pretty much hung around me
for the three hours I was there. She would bring her friends over to get
a lollipop. At one point she fell asleep on my lap with an angelic smile
on her face. I had made a new friend! The kids enjoyed having their
pictures taken and performing songs for me. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Monday evening, as I reflected on
my Holy Week experiences, I thanked the Good Lord for giving me the opportunity
to spend these three years with these wonderful people. It was just 3
months ago, that I left the United States to travel to Ghana.
I have experienced so much already, that it is hard to fathom. It is very
difficult being away from family and friends; however, I know God placed me
here for this time and he has blessed me abundantly. Madam Pauline, the
headmistress, and her visiting nephews and niece, Raymond, Antoinette and
Anthony have welcomed me, along with the Form 3 Girls of SAGISS, to spend the
Easter break with them. They have kept me busy and helped make any time
of loneliness minimal. As you can see from the blog and pictures, I have
had a Holy Week filled with the Holy Spirit and many blessings! </div>
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<span style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">The adventure continues….. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />Diane Yongahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18379656175655281100noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3809342947442284617.post-51660409406011267342019-03-29T11:37:00.001-07:002019-03-29T11:37:26.128-07:00Travels and Cooking Lessons<br />
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<span style="color: black;">I have had a number of occasions I
would like to share with you since my last blog update.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">Karen and I took a trip to Accra,
the capital city of Ghana, to do the last bit of necessary paperwork at Ghana
Immigration, to be able to stay in Ghana for three years. Accra is a city
of many contrasts – some places are very new and modern while others not so
much. We visited a shopping mall that had a couple stores where we could
find most anything we really needed. However, as we traveled by plane, we
were limited in what we could buy. At the same time, there are lots of
vendors on the street, plying their wares, walking between lanes of
traffic. Oh yes, and there is lots of traffic in Accra and crazy driving
in most every town of any size. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">While in Accra, we stayed at the
Good Shepard Guest House where we met a number of priests and other guests.
Accra has two rainy seasons, so it was much more green and lush - with actual
flowers blooming - very pretty and in contrast to the dry brown we see
currently in Damongo. With the pretty green grass and flowers, however,
came the humidity! Even though the temperature was 10 degrees lower than
in Damongo, it felt much hotter.</span><br />
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Karen and I borrowed our kitchen
with a gas stove and oven to a few Form 2 and Form 3 girls who were celebrating
birthdays in March. There was a lot of cooking during the day and fun
festivities, including dancing, in the evening. Francisca, a Form 3 Food
and Nutrition student, did most of the cooking and baking. </div>
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Karen and I traveled by bus for
three hours with the Form 3 girls on pilgrimage to a newly constructed Grotto,
which was blessed by Bishop Peter Paul on the Feast of the Annunciation.
The first two hours of the trip was on a nice paved road, passing through
a few towns of moderate size. The last hour was on a dirt road, going
further and further into what seemed like nowhere. However, periodically,
a small village would appear and you would realize you were still in
civilization.</div>
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<span style="color: black;">At the site of the Grotto, there
was a huge iron crucifix, created by a local artist. It was a very
special day for many people. Following the blessing of the Grotto by the
Bishop we had a lovely Mass. Karen and I were introduced to
the crowd of people by the Bishop, so they would know who we are these next
three years. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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The girls of SAGISS wear their
white uniforms for Sunday and special church occasions, like the
pilgrimage. Here are the Form 3 students in their Sunday whites, singing
on the way to the Grotto.</div>
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I used my kitchen again, for two
cooking practicals for my Form 1 students. They wanted to cook some
“American” food. I had them make spaghetti and marinara sauce. They
did a wonderful job. I invited the two girls with the highest test marks
to join Karen and I in going to the market on Saturday morning to do the
shopping for the practicals. They were very helpful in both showing us
how to determine what foods were fresh and also in carrying our bags of
food. They refused to let us carry anything other than the
bread! These girls are so kind and helpful.</div>
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The girls all liked the American
spaghetti and are looking forward to more cooking practicals in the
future. Here is one group toasting to a wonderful meal.</div>
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The adventure continues……</div>
<br />Diane Yongahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18379656175655281100noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3809342947442284617.post-38966977552939149382019-03-08T12:03:00.000-08:002019-03-08T12:03:01.995-08:00God In Everyday Life<br />
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My time in Ghana has been somewhat of a whirlwind. I
am experiencing so many new and different things. My senses sometimes
seem on overload. I am typically a quiet person who gets energy from
silence, alone-time, communing with God in prayer. Some of my typical
routines have been difficult to establish here. God called me to SAGISS
for a reason. I think He is trying to draw me out of myself and in to
relationship with others.</div>
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For quite a few years, I was a “Daily Mass” goer. It was a rare day that
I wasn’t in the pew. I loved daily Mass – it brought peace to my
day. I was also committed to two hours of Eucharistic Adoration per
week. My time was typically very early morning hours, and I was there
with the Lord all by myself. I could talk to Him about all that was
troubling me. I could set my problems before Him, and by the time I
walked out, he had lifted my burdens and had answered me, had guided me in the
direction of His will. Those hours in Adoration lead me to this mission.</div>
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I miss my time in Adoration. I miss saying the Rosary in the Virgin Mary
Chapel or praying in the Sacred Heart Chapel or just sitting in the pews
at the Cathedral of St. Paul. I miss my Cathedral family.</div>
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Here on mission, I have the ability to attend Mass on Tuesday, Friday and
Sunday mornings. I am grateful for these opportunities. Listening to the
girls sing, with their joyful and angelic voices, lifts me up. </div>
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Unfortunately, I have not had an opportunity for Eucharistic Adoration here in
Damongo. I think God felt the connection between Him and I was strong,
but that my connection to the people around me needed some work. Thus, He
sent me on mission, to get me out of my comfort zone, to push me to the next
level. I am to find God in the people I encounter. I am finding Him
in the girls at SAGISS, in my fellow teachers, in the headmistress (my boss),
in the priests and sisters, and in the people of the town of Damongo.
When I go to market to buy my bread, my oranges and apples, my tomatoes and
onions, I see Him in the tired, weathered faces of the women who labor so hard
to make money to feed their families. I see Him in the curious, smiling
faces of the children as they say “hello” to the white woman passing by.
I see Him in the Muslim men kneeling in prayer. I see Him in the SAGISS
girls always willing to lend me a helping hand.</div>
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I have now met my Bishop, Bishop Peter Paul of the Diocese of Damongo, as he
invited Karen and I to his home for dinner one evening. He is a very
delightful man; very kind. (It was there, I had my first taste of guinea
fowl. It tasted very similar to chicken.) I have met many priests,
some at Mass, others by fact I am on mission through the Diocese of
Damongo. The priests give very good, relevant homilies, relating them to
the person in the pews’ daily life and struggles. (However, last Sundays
Mass lasted 3 hours!) I enjoy working for the Diocese and the
Catholic Church. God is woven through every part of the day at SAGISS –
the benefit of volunteering for a Catholic High School. God is not just
at Mass. There are signs of God everywhere – He is not kept out of the public
forum as we do in the United States. People believing in God is the
norm here. I am not bringing God to these people – He is already
here. I am learning how to become closer to God through my interactions
with these people.</div>
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March 6 was the 62nd Anniversary of Ghana's Independence. The girls of
SAGISS marched in the parade, as did all the other schools in the area, down to
the tiny tots. They not only march with their legs, but their arms are
definitely a part of the march also.</div>
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Young children marching - precious!</div>
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SAGISS Girls marching.</div>
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Caption: Bishop Peter Paul presenting 2nd prize to girls of
SAGISS and Headmistress, Madame Pauline</div>
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It is now the season of Lent. I struggle with what I am “going to give
up”, as I have already given up so much just to be here. Missing out on
time with my immediate family for three years is the most difficult. I
know God has a plan for me and for them; that my mission here is meant to be
and that from it, will come wonderful things for my family. We don’t
always understand why or see where God is leading us, but if we put our trust
in Him, all will be well. I truly believe that.</div>
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God brought me here to Ghana to draw me closer to Him, through relationship
with my fellow man. We are all children of God - no matter where on this
earth we live.</div>
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In this season of Lent, I will work on my prayer life -
carving out some alone time for just God and me; I will give alms through
service via my mission; I will continue eating a mostly simple, almost
vegetarian diet. Life is different here. I feel like the three
pillars of Lent are woven in to my daily experience: prayer, fasting and
alms giving. This mission is drawing me closer to God through my everyday
living.</div>
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The adventure continues…</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Diane Yongahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18379656175655281100noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3809342947442284617.post-86312076164178851642019-02-20T14:28:00.000-08:002019-02-20T14:28:24.838-08:00Everyday Life<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
hope today’s blog post will give you a flavor of what I am experiencing, here
in Damongo, Ghana.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is mainly a
compilation of photos for you to enjoy. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">One
Sunday afternoon, we took a short safari at Mole National Forest – which is a
quick 20 minute car ride from Damongo.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Most everyone who visits Mole will pass through Damongo on their way.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We
saw 12 elephants – one of which came very close to charging us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We started following an elephant down the
road. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He stopped to eat at a tree. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Suddenly we realized there was a second, much
larger elephant, with tusks, following us!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We were sandwiched between two elephants!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The larger one kept coming toward us, ears
wagging and he sounded his trumpet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
ran into the bush, at the guides demand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The guide had his rifle ready to shoot in to the air to scare the
elephant, when the elephant himself, veered off the road into the bush.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We scrambled to our vehicles, having had a
very exciting, yet scary few minutes.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">As
our safari continued, we saw a number of other elephants.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Three teenage elephants at a water whole,
some adult elephants, one taking a dip in the water while two others just
having a drink.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We also drove right past
an elephant whose hind feet seemed to be a bit stuck in the mud. A second
elephant was in the trees coming to his rescue – again, we drove out of there
quickly!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">At
Mole, we also saw various types of monkeys,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>antelope, wart hogs, and baboons.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">Here
are some photos which show what everyday life looks like in and around Damongo.</span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTFktf2L43hnbpldjtlQDjLkcMXzqtjEerbgS-6r72iM2x2CUQo8ytUO1kDfQ5HOvTemZvwcmhMk_67gC2BZQ96Qj6mcqqcXeLKu_AN4HNBow1PRJG6HxP-i9178z0xO98C-LV4pZw6-s/s1600/WomenBucketHead.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTFktf2L43hnbpldjtlQDjLkcMXzqtjEerbgS-6r72iM2x2CUQo8ytUO1kDfQ5HOvTemZvwcmhMk_67gC2BZQ96Qj6mcqqcXeLKu_AN4HNBow1PRJG6HxP-i9178z0xO98C-LV4pZw6-s/s320/WomenBucketHead.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Road to SAGISS</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">It
is dry and very bumpy and we must go ever so slowly.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">What would normally take 2-3 minutes to drive
in United States takes us 18 minutes down this road.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">Supposedly it is worse in rainy season!</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">I can imagine getting stuck….</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">We also meet huge trucks carrying gravel,
logs and people – somewhat surprisingly, they are Mercedes Benz.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh48qLVoK5y3j8jQ3lmggR0QNgHV7wrSF3JD5GcN2pWlO1zQOA0DfG4B1rS778Po8gtr4JBYfTOjf0fEF7dcQ2DlcrA8QIWHz-dCwmyynT8WSSCtyLMJSsD1LcXlR2srVQMr1siIZQdhU4/s1600/GreenTruck.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh48qLVoK5y3j8jQ3lmggR0QNgHV7wrSF3JD5GcN2pWlO1zQOA0DfG4B1rS778Po8gtr4JBYfTOjf0fEF7dcQ2DlcrA8QIWHz-dCwmyynT8WSSCtyLMJSsD1LcXlR2srVQMr1siIZQdhU4/s320/GreenTruck.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhDQl8I33yp6hYU2kgcshGJM2B4MFypzHV-Evem0xFO4BFV-SvRvpxshiIDzpfOJJ3j7tBeSkbb1GmjhXq7uHI79IADml12tacQK4uTecv9ibY7MAZQhLBcm1g7ork0ZiCoEaxNq5EE5U/s1600/WomenFireWood.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhDQl8I33yp6hYU2kgcshGJM2B4MFypzHV-Evem0xFO4BFV-SvRvpxshiIDzpfOJJ3j7tBeSkbb1GmjhXq7uHI79IADml12tacQK4uTecv9ibY7MAZQhLBcm1g7ork0ZiCoEaxNq5EE5U/s320/WomenFireWood.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">Fencing along the road to SAGISS.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">The
hard work it took to make it is amazing.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4iGH-lZTkt5CvDT4UvqitY2dFJ_7e0mXcDubjauqmT_L-BGtZr2dyUUc6KJVLVc0fOJ72WNMk0Kpte67BieEuZvQq801HW-Y8B_JDMG6aNT53nUbfNQRab9LXjQsEcfC5BGFZCvpg7cc/s1600/Fence.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4iGH-lZTkt5CvDT4UvqitY2dFJ_7e0mXcDubjauqmT_L-BGtZr2dyUUc6KJVLVc0fOJ72WNMk0Kpte67BieEuZvQq801HW-Y8B_JDMG6aNT53nUbfNQRab9LXjQsEcfC5BGFZCvpg7cc/s320/Fence.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">Young boys selling chickens on side of road</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">Sheep walking freely through town</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">This is Isaac - my faithful phone guy.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirzIhjZfyIKFiXQjFKopkMYtXo9JnrhN-bXTX4ClNwU3Tt7ZSk7f6YzIhALoW6L89oJ2h8WIFaHIDx4m2RxYxOVcqx5ODSRRT7JaRb4iL931CfaezGy8fn_5xGGiN8e4sSxSQRhsKL_0g/s1600/YellowShirt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirzIhjZfyIKFiXQjFKopkMYtXo9JnrhN-bXTX4ClNwU3Tt7ZSk7f6YzIhALoW6L89oJ2h8WIFaHIDx4m2RxYxOVcqx5ODSRRT7JaRb4iL931CfaezGy8fn_5xGGiN8e4sSxSQRhsKL_0g/s320/YellowShirt.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">He
sells me Vodafone minutes so I can be in touch with family and friends! </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">His stand is right next to the bank where I
get Ghana currency.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">He is a very nice 22 year-old young man who is
patient with this older, American woman who doesn’t know much about how things
work in Ghana – or how phones work in general – right Joe and Paul???!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Street vendor in Damongo selling used shoes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Huge piles of shoes!</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQd8DJ9RmPia-7ng2kBn-oOIby9DB8SpBUStU5ReuiTIbn31Wdd2SfoVZUKw19tbaqexOtpz5uFi5eqj2mk_Ktp44SaQcr-CT3nMu3hDJXnRZlsryMWtVF_vyuTDlCfWD7GsYZ5zxFsTA/s1600/Shoes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQd8DJ9RmPia-7ng2kBn-oOIby9DB8SpBUStU5ReuiTIbn31Wdd2SfoVZUKw19tbaqexOtpz5uFi5eqj2mk_Ktp44SaQcr-CT3nMu3hDJXnRZlsryMWtVF_vyuTDlCfWD7GsYZ5zxFsTA/s320/Shoes.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Father on motorcycle with his three sons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Common sight seeing either multiple people or large loads on
motorcycles. Seeing a baby strapped to his momma’s back while she drives a
motorcycle is also common.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">Young men hanging out at the petrol station where we were airing our tires
before trip to Tamale.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Three girls at the Tamale market<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">One side street at Tamale market</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">SAGISS girl carrying items on head to Dining Hall after cleaning the Teachers
lounge one evening after classes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">Goats sitting atop tractor in SAGISS compound</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Pigs wandering the SAGISS compound<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">I
hope you enjoyed the photos of everyday life in Damongo!</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">I am doing fine!</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">Keep me in your prayers!</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">God bless you.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">The adventure continues……</span></div>
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<br />Diane Yongahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18379656175655281100noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3809342947442284617.post-91933409907924429782019-02-14T11:44:00.002-08:002019-02-14T11:44:45.989-08:00Getting Settled<br />
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It seems surreal to me that it has been only two weeks since
I left the United States to travel to Ghana. I have experienced so much
since then. I am starting to get in to a daily routine; I am starting to
get settled in. </div>
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I am laying on my bed, under my mosquito net, which took a
few days for me to hang. (Since it is the dry season, the mosquitoes have not
been so bad.) If I think too much about being under the net, I sometimes
get almost claustrophobic. On the other hand, it reminds me of those younger
days when I would build blanket tents with my young sons - great memories. </div>
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I have begun doing some cooking. Now that we are in our new home, if we
want to eat, we need to cook. Luckily, I know a couple African dishes. My
first dish was rice and peanut sauce. My second meal was spaghetti. My
third meal was rice, red sauce and fried plantains. </div>
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At this point we are mainly eating vegetarian. Most of
our protein is coming from eggs, tuna and groundnuts (peanuts). I still have
not gotten past the flies on the meat sitting out in the heat at the market.
Meat just is not that attractive to me at this time. By the way, we have
dogs, cats, goats, chickens, guinea fowl and pigs grazing freely throughout the
compound. They seem as afraid of me as I am of them. We also have
had some small lizard/gecko type reptiles visiting us now and then, along with
wasps, bees (we have hives in compound) and ants, ants, and more ants.</div>
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The girls attended Mass at the Cathedral on Sunday. The bus must take two
trips, each time packed to the brim with girls. They sang songs all the
way there. As we passed through the town of Damongo, many heads turned to see
who was making the beautiful music. Little children waived at the white woman
(me) with curiosity as we passed by.</div>
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After Mass, Karen, Mary (my fellow teacher and next door neighbor
volunteering with the Peace Corp.) and I visited a friend of Mary's.
Christine is an American, who has lived in various parts of Ghana for 23 years.
We had a wonderful visit, including a meal of juice and pancakes and sausage (I
stuck with pancakes). Christine provided us with insights and some sage
advice. We took a yellow-yellow (motorcycle taxi) home. They are
widely used here in Damongo, along with motorcycles.</div>
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I officially started my job on Monday. I am teaching Form 1 Food and
Nutrition. Instead of naming classes Sophomore, Junior and Senior, they
are referred to as Form 1, Form 2 and Form 3. I teach four - one
hour classes per week. The girls are very sweet and interested in
learning more about America and what I think of Ghana. The girls were excited
to have their class picture taken to be posted to the United States. As
you can see, the girls have beautiful smiles.</div>
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The girls at the school are very eager to help us out. They like
carrying our bags and purses home for us. Tonight, two Form 2 girls,
Hagar and Agnes, walked home with me, carrying my bags. They taught me
how to burn my garbage (at my request), swept my courtyard for me, and did some
dishes (not at my request). They become offended if you turn down their
offers to help, so I let them do it. I treated them to some
pineapple and a picture on my blog.</div>
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In addition to teaching, I have been assigned to be the school secretary by the
Headmistress! Once she found out I could type, she was very
excited. They have been without a secretary this school year. I will
learn more about the running of the school and the Ghanaian education
system. Another perk is that I get my own office!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiURJVZWOIXBk2cU8FHUiE3FwCHWxvAhzxBlj2nSzm9LeKSH1T657rbLCiTjGpGp5xMzHrNwFBzqRBaZ3xrYI6OyCELgbw9Yutze8rvMInKYpb8Fh6Q3LFyYTN4jR4TFW5j0i_mjGgPUY/s1600/Blog2+Office.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiURJVZWOIXBk2cU8FHUiE3FwCHWxvAhzxBlj2nSzm9LeKSH1T657rbLCiTjGpGp5xMzHrNwFBzqRBaZ3xrYI6OyCELgbw9Yutze8rvMInKYpb8Fh6Q3LFyYTN4jR4TFW5j0i_mjGgPUY/s320/Blog2+Office.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Tonight Mary invited us to supper as two Peace Corp friends were staying over
on their way to Mole National Park. Mole is very close to Damongo. (I
hope to safari there someday soon.) Mary is from New Mexico, her friends
are from New York and Iowa. They had some great stories to tell. It
was fun to compare their experiences and living environment to ours. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have learned I need to have an open mind in order to become fully integrated
in to Ghanaian culture. It will take some time, but I already know this
opportunity is a gift from God. I will strive to make the most of my time here
to fulfill God's call.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Please keep me in your prayers. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The adventure continues.....</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Diane Yongahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18379656175655281100noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3809342947442284617.post-27836526697956072192019-01-29T12:01:00.000-08:002019-01-29T12:01:07.778-08:00New Home for Three Years<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have arrived at my new home for the next three
years: St. Ann's Girls Senior High School. In Damongo, Ghana.<br />
<br />
Msgr. Augustine "Gus'" picked us, Karen and I, up from the Tamale
airport. We enjoyed a delicious lunch at the Archbishop's home ( Diocese of
Tamale ).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As we made our way through
Tamale, we stopped to meet and visit a number of priests.<br />
<br />
The trip between Tamale and Damongo by vehicle, in our case an extended cab pick-up, loaded
to the brim with 7 suitcases, took about 2 hours. We passed a few small
villages along the road, where we saw mud huts, many goats, sheep and
cattle. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-HfpQfbvHRLbihLqV150ZdLW3_XulicjUz-mdVZVncZ66MWbZf9yl7yVfOScMDG8wZMzYdc5xkzLG5Y6JaEegiO66kXqMBw5KG3laO8YhNlIDpr3Rw-hfU8aWLxEPMcsBCzHgJIdC6aI/s1600/ArrivalHuts2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-HfpQfbvHRLbihLqV150ZdLW3_XulicjUz-mdVZVncZ66MWbZf9yl7yVfOScMDG8wZMzYdc5xkzLG5Y6JaEegiO66kXqMBw5KG3laO8YhNlIDpr3Rw-hfU8aWLxEPMcsBCzHgJIdC6aI/s320/ArrivalHuts2.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVePtXpAdqAgoM1nfeVlMdu0F2d5CvFBVSW-FkzH0S9OcOOWgHUuhStBfJXBHsqdyE2OBnzyNTnVZIol6qT1NSdho7foc_gufbM6o4mGcu7iyN5P781PW7imamP_rVrsls9hg1PQiHim8/s1600/ArrivalHuts3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVePtXpAdqAgoM1nfeVlMdu0F2d5CvFBVSW-FkzH0S9OcOOWgHUuhStBfJXBHsqdyE2OBnzyNTnVZIol6qT1NSdho7foc_gufbM6o4mGcu7iyN5P781PW7imamP_rVrsls9hg1PQiHim8/s320/ArrivalHuts3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsq0gVfsB5LzKOrDTV-VYObwf-gckbJeL5isQ9cZNH95p9jqbN7o9_Y0EJeluSb5ntaeOC1lz8FBXts4nS9ffrS8ig_tF1BAsNaR9W2XaKo4RrJSxZ4U0as_DSNHAzIvayNcRs_Zd-zhU/s1600/ArrivalHuts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsq0gVfsB5LzKOrDTV-VYObwf-gckbJeL5isQ9cZNH95p9jqbN7o9_Y0EJeluSb5ntaeOC1lz8FBXts4nS9ffrS8ig_tF1BAsNaR9W2XaKo4RrJSxZ4U0as_DSNHAzIvayNcRs_Zd-zhU/s320/ArrivalHuts.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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There were giant ant hills, some over 10 feet tall. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaa1p9PdmWLZ3pOmcPVSE1SCHx8remIiAc_x8jHND2lG3W5br8BxKPz0LCCoHw17C6VUZ32tpWfDJ7jS3Le6rgmIuCg8eMU6wWF_x4kfD0D0ShwjOU31zaw33pA791_v907gaBqPW3Bc4/s1600/ArrivalAntHill.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaa1p9PdmWLZ3pOmcPVSE1SCHx8remIiAc_x8jHND2lG3W5br8BxKPz0LCCoHw17C6VUZ32tpWfDJ7jS3Le6rgmIuCg8eMU6wWF_x4kfD0D0ShwjOU31zaw33pA791_v907gaBqPW3Bc4/s320/ArrivalAntHill.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Women
and children carrying large bowls filled with various foods on their heads -
often times using no hands! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPGRpDVfeCO0Mt9-rEETnMGjhpojPCWeWx9rtmlL2w8_cUlwMwj5FCDruvkTyuBwntsH49fnMjHrQr9iJ9OKx2lqa_XUKdEVLWOa_qKJL8m9QoaZei2KnGRu4cnW1Uh6b-2c8GlzbfRUA/s1600/ArrivalTwoGirls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPGRpDVfeCO0Mt9-rEETnMGjhpojPCWeWx9rtmlL2w8_cUlwMwj5FCDruvkTyuBwntsH49fnMjHrQr9iJ9OKx2lqa_XUKdEVLWOa_qKJL8m9QoaZei2KnGRu4cnW1Uh6b-2c8GlzbfRUA/s320/ArrivalTwoGirls.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I just couldn't resist stopping the vehicle
to buy some plantain chips and chin-chin (cookie-like snack) to take home to
munch on. We saw many people pumping water from village wells, and
then carrying heavy buckets of water to their homes.</div>
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We were fortunate to stay in an air conditioned room in the Diocese of Damongo
guest house the first three days and were served food and drinks from
their very popular restaurant. We met many more priests and the
Archbishop Emeritus of Tamale there. I have not yet met the Bishop of
Damongo, Bishop Peter Paul as he is currently in Europe on business.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
Damongo is in the dry season now, so most everything is dry and dusty and very
hot and sunny. Mid to high 90’s is typical. The locals say the heat
is just beginning - that March and April are the really hot months. My
very large sun hat is coming in extremely handy.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqcw68hOWPsGVSyykXjmy-JYCUaLGTV2Z_GqmaTvRr4gUC7Pm68bKDSFeEtRdjvqEVVumCLooJQ0QSvV4YN8PDOdBqZuV5Qj2u__Yyv9hN8oOPre0BPo-n6DtkqCA905ihGBZuYrkOtkE/s1600/ArrivalBricks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqcw68hOWPsGVSyykXjmy-JYCUaLGTV2Z_GqmaTvRr4gUC7Pm68bKDSFeEtRdjvqEVVumCLooJQ0QSvV4YN8PDOdBqZuV5Qj2u__Yyv9hN8oOPre0BPo-n6DtkqCA905ihGBZuYrkOtkE/s200/ArrivalBricks.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1PAapAKQiS_g1ehmXbR263o19rT4BIQph1Fgj7ZTe0j224L7u8LDXAlhJER_ZSbmMGeLQOqzmKTPFfkjq9WuNUBWGZJAq2wo0ERzrvvK2mH4CbtbdRUrjMmaxROz7MzlbmQ00W8JSj_8/s1600/ArrivalFence.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1PAapAKQiS_g1ehmXbR263o19rT4BIQph1Fgj7ZTe0j224L7u8LDXAlhJER_ZSbmMGeLQOqzmKTPFfkjq9WuNUBWGZJAq2wo0ERzrvvK2mH4CbtbdRUrjMmaxROz7MzlbmQ00W8JSj_8/s200/ArrivalFence.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
Saturday, we took a trip in to town to visit the big, weekly market. It was
amazing to experience. We walked around, seeing many types of
food, from fruits, vegetables, dry beans, yams, and a myriad of spices.
There were booths selling colorful, bright patterned materials.
There were people selling second-hand shoes, clothes and children’s toys.
There were people selling foods they were cooking right there in the market. I
even tasted some "local" (home-made) beer,that tasted similar to
apple cider/cider vinegar.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguLK_UCHirFNmyuvTFsgIrZtxU692CRbxhAerDvGBv_m7A3IeIYJFkmjLhXfH6q3Q2VwOaWPfM4V-fEXCytVI7XEUH6D5JhLThc012DEVpK5ulOV4q9Jy0dV6DFoAjy5VH07kzyizkXSc/s1600/ArrivalMarket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguLK_UCHirFNmyuvTFsgIrZtxU692CRbxhAerDvGBv_m7A3IeIYJFkmjLhXfH6q3Q2VwOaWPfM4V-fEXCytVI7XEUH6D5JhLThc012DEVpK5ulOV4q9Jy0dV6DFoAjy5VH07kzyizkXSc/s200/ArrivalMarket.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1_Tk7Tgd1Y8jTWacASepdlpcw_bRghKt_ct2d3IPuJ1wFhc020xLoLftM3Ui527ukIQnV0UWmRPu_tDaiRthVRnbvCXm-priZIFtJZlZgDfdz0J6t8MEtwkx91UiE5Ty6TkV3C4g_YlM/s1600/ArrivalMarket2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1_Tk7Tgd1Y8jTWacASepdlpcw_bRghKt_ct2d3IPuJ1wFhc020xLoLftM3Ui527ukIQnV0UWmRPu_tDaiRthVRnbvCXm-priZIFtJZlZgDfdz0J6t8MEtwkx91UiE5Ty6TkV3C4g_YlM/s200/ArrivalMarket2.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
Sunday we attended Mass at St. Theresa of the Child Jesus Parish, as Msgr.
Gus was celebrating the Mass there. We met some religious sisters there
and a number of parishioners. The people I have met are very
kind. They had both a young adult choir and a tribal
choir singing throughout the Mass. You could see the joy in the
young adults as they sang, their bodies swaying to the beat of the music, large
smiles beaming from their faces. Mass lasted 2 1/4 hours, but it did not
seem like it; the time flew by. <br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJAch1S5zRuQTOOYwgqcnySic7Q84P7FjRfMO1lNF1HO2Eoc5r0ySVXWjpb9twf9UID_9Jomx2edLMx6ULK4FujLySW2DnLjbB-cYd5vZTwMPNxPeOGrqBL65XvhoqsW1CKN0MoM4yisE/s1600/ArrivalChurch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJAch1S5zRuQTOOYwgqcnySic7Q84P7FjRfMO1lNF1HO2Eoc5r0ySVXWjpb9twf9UID_9Jomx2edLMx6ULK4FujLySW2DnLjbB-cYd5vZTwMPNxPeOGrqBL65XvhoqsW1CKN0MoM4yisE/s320/ArrivalChurch.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Sunday evening we toured the new Cathedral,
which took 10 years to build. They started using the Cathedral in
2016. It can hold 1,000 people. Even though it is nothing like my
home U.S. parish, the Cathedral of Saint Paul, it is beautiful in its own
right. I will be attending Mass at the Cathedral this coming Sunday.</div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Monday, the big day arrived; we moved in to our new home for the next three
years.<br />
Karen and I are sharing an apartment in a four-plex within the compound of St.
Ann's Girls Senior High School. The compound is about 2-3 miles outside
town, down a dirt road, full of bumps and ruts and dust. One needs to
drive slowly. Looks like I won't be walking in to town for safety
reasons, as it is a bit desolate. I will have to find a different way to get my
exercise. Thankfully the compound is walled and gated, so I feel safe. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl6Ud8r0eUMhyphenhyphenal_i2qxOy-dZ1nh9iIAcahpzEAOO7EwwFbcDsMDejDRbmvz6tQ-Wru9yV8zxuRZLriaIxnNFXda-J9mCQugMCp-ikdjc-rr2YEElV0391OJ4uES6Ckezn0rFeuhbzQ-c/s1600/ArrivalSchool.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl6Ud8r0eUMhyphenhyphenal_i2qxOy-dZ1nh9iIAcahpzEAOO7EwwFbcDsMDejDRbmvz6tQ-Wru9yV8zxuRZLriaIxnNFXda-J9mCQugMCp-ikdjc-rr2YEElV0391OJ4uES6Ckezn0rFeuhbzQ-c/s320/ArrivalSchool.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The apartment is very nice. It has a large courtyard, a kitchen with
new stove/oven and new refrigerator. There is a dining/living room combo,
two bedrooms, a shower, and a toilet. The bedrooms and living room have
ceiling fans, but not the kitchen. Off the living room is a nice porch to relax
in. We have running water, yet there are a few plumbing issues we need to work
around - nothing we can't handle.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdKoyZcE3gIMJENt7sTdUtSEpg7R2JMr3_96vDVfAL_-TkBh51AT2BytoOlnug_O93opYVx2tNckLsjLTDBI1YU8r-4KqdIhotTCTjV9ag_jXKGoFD5gvDuCoDFknl6MsehUc38Mg4Nk8/s1600/ArrivalHouse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdKoyZcE3gIMJENt7sTdUtSEpg7R2JMr3_96vDVfAL_-TkBh51AT2BytoOlnug_O93opYVx2tNckLsjLTDBI1YU8r-4KqdIhotTCTjV9ag_jXKGoFD5gvDuCoDFknl6MsehUc38Mg4Nk8/s320/ArrivalHouse.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRbIVia0WsdcnJspYiFxiEh7pfghJ30arPE9XBhR_IXeGHufu676fsUUoUBQT0d_YvK2MSdb8UXkqHKOUveo7eIzFk3BPaJ6T-JyLozG3clPLI8qTC0_s24q8Ogwp6nSMh2_eJL4EScDo/s1600/ArrivalRoom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRbIVia0WsdcnJspYiFxiEh7pfghJ30arPE9XBhR_IXeGHufu676fsUUoUBQT0d_YvK2MSdb8UXkqHKOUveo7eIzFk3BPaJ6T-JyLozG3clPLI8qTC0_s24q8Ogwp6nSMh2_eJL4EScDo/s320/ArrivalRoom.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am writing this blog as I lay in bed, my first night in my new home. I
feel blessed, excited, a bit wound up, yet at peace. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Please keep me in your prayers.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The adventure continues.......<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />Diane Yongahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18379656175655281100noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3809342947442284617.post-31804539606721610562018-12-20T17:26:00.001-08:002018-12-20T17:26:13.923-08:00Three Flights Away<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I
just received some exciting news! I will be leaving for my mission in Ghana on
January 23<sup>rd</sup>. After three plane rides and a couple hour car ride, I
will land in Damongo, Ghana. It has suddenly all become very real.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I
will spend the next month packing all the essentials: water purifier, solar
shower, mosquito net, solar lamps/chargers, light cotton clothing, etc., and
completing my last immunizations.<br />
<br />
The most difficult task will be saying good-bye to my family and friends who
mean so very much to me, most especially my two sons, my daughter and
granddaughters.<br />
<br />
I feel the LMH formation program has prepared me well to take on this
adventure. Please keep me in your prayers and stay tuned....<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />Diane Yongahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18379656175655281100noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3809342947442284617.post-14316481929189079472018-12-03T11:20:00.002-08:002018-12-03T11:20:33.083-08:00Called to Mission<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I am
Diane Yonga, a parishioner from the Cathedral of St. Paul, in Saint Paul,
Minnesota.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I will be serving as a Lay
Mission Helper (LMH) missioner, in the Diocese of Damongo, Ghana, teaching
Nutrition classes to students at St. Ann’s High School, an all-girl’s Catholic high
school in Damongo.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">One
evening in October 2017, as I was in bed praying, God spoke to my heart and
told me clearly “now is the time”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>God
has called me to do overseas mission work – a seed planted in high school when
I was enamored by thoughts of joining the Peace Corp.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These many years later, I am excited to
encounter Christ in the people of Ghana!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I hope you enjoy following my adventures via this blog.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />Diane Yongahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18379656175655281100noreply@blogger.com7