Africa - Botswana, South Africa, Nairobi

Final Vows. On July 22 in Forest Hill, Felix Bwalya made his Final Profession. It was a joyful and prayerful celebration. He is the first student from Zambia to be finally professed. We were very happy that Felix's parents were able to join us for the celebrations. The choir from Naledi joined with our own students in leading the singing. Ignatius was the principal Celebrant and homilist, Bishop Boniface presided. At the end of the Mass Bishop Boniface congratulated Felix especially that he had not rushed into Final Vows but had instead renewed for one year to give himself more time to think and pray! Then, in a few wise and witty words, the Bishop lamented the fact that many seminarians are obsessed with getting ordained and then after three (or even two) years quickly run out of zest and zeal and are soon heading for retirement!

Our six Theologians returned to Kisima in Nairobi on Friday 13th. August. Three are on their final year, two on their third year and one on his second year.

There are four Novices in Molepolole with Fr. Michael Ogweno, the Novice Director. He is assisted by Fr. Julian and newly professed Felix Bwalya has gone there to assist in the Novitiate and the Parish.

Fr. Diedericks Selamela will be participating in the Faith and Mission Renewal Programme at Dalgan Park,Navan from 20TH. Sept. to 10TH. Dec. Fr. Diedericks has been working in the parish of Westonaria and Bekkersdal since his ordination.

Fr. Anthony Mhluli who completed his term as Rector in Kisima in May of this year has been appointed to Westonaria and Bekkersdal.

In Irene, we have seven Philosophers, three in second year and four in first. We also have six students in the Orientation year. At the moment we have a man from Malawi on a "Come and See" His name is Deusdedit! Fr Pat manages all with aplomb!

Our Congress will take place at Forest Hill in January 2005. Preparations have begun already.

Fr. Kieran Creagh has won the group category in this year's Community Builder of the Year awards in Gauteng Province. This was for taking part in the HIV vaccine trials, building the Leratong Hospice for the terminally ill and also setting up the Kwa-Siyalalela Counselling Centre. Congrats to Kieran.