A Longtime Wish Come True

Sr Helena Whelan’s long-held dream came true when she traveled to West Africa, immersing herself in the vibrant daily life and ministries of the Marist sisters.

A long-time wish of Sr Helena Whelan was fulfilled when Sister Sylvette offered her the opportunity to visit our mission in West Africa. Sr Helena left Manchester on 1st February, destined for The Gambia, and upon arrival in Banjul, she was warmly welcomed by the Fajikunda community. This marked the beginning of a month filled with spiritual and cultural enrichment, as she experienced the daily rhythm of the sisters’ lives and ministries.

Her first walk around the Fajikunda compound revealed the deep bond between the sisters and the local community, and the high regard in which they are held. Here, the sisters are engaged in education through local schools, parish ministry, and at Saint Martha’s Centre for young women. Sr Helena witnessed a hive of activity, with enthusiasm for mission and collaboration clearly evident. At Saint Martha’s Centre, she had the privilege of working alongside the students, sharing skills, and learning new ones.

Her journey then took her to Farafenni, the first Marist foundation in The Gambia, where she experienced the same spirit of Marist hospitality. The sisters there are involved in social work, parish ministry, and catechetics. From Farafenni, she traveled to Senegal, passing through towns that offered insight into the rich cultural heritage of the country. In Dakar, Sr Helena had the joy of meeting young women in formation, sharing her own lived Marist experience and reflections on Marist spirituality. In Ker Mariama, the sisters’ ministries include education, health, and social care, and she was grateful for the opportunity to support them, even briefly.

As she traveled back home, she assured the sisters of her prayers for the ongoing blessing of their ‘Work of Mary’ in this corner of the Lord’s Vineyard.