Guiding with Love

Sr. Esperance Mave Bahati, JRS Uganda English Instructor

Part three of our JRS Lenten Reflection series

When I first joined JRS, I didn’t fully understand the services provided to refugees and forcibly displaced people. Over time, my involvement deepened my understanding, aligning closely with the charism of my congregation, the Sisters of Mary of Ingelmunster, which is to serve the poor in the spirit of the Gospel.

As a volunteer in the education department, I facilitate language training and offer support, advocacy, and accompaniment. My eight-year journey has been transformative, both for me and for those I serve. One poignant story is of a young boy from DRC who, after losing his family, was abandoned and faced immense hardship in Kampala. At his lowest point, he considered ending his life but found hope through our support. Today, he’s thriving in a construction training program. Each day with refugees brings new challenges and joys, inspiring me to guide them with love, empowering them with life skills, and reminding them of their worth.

An Invitation for PRAYER 

Let us begin each day by surrendering everything to God, placing our lives and work into His hands. Throughout the day, let us pause to offer our remaining tasks to Him and thank Him for the accomplishments and blessings we experience. Through prayer, may we grow in trust, resilience, and focus, dedicating ourselves with singleminded devotion to finding God in the people we serve.

An Invitation for FASTING 

If you have hobbies or habits like sports, social media, or other activities that often consume your time, use that energy for good. For example, if you’re passionate about sports, consider using your expertise to teach or mentor young people, or organize community activities that benefit those who are less fortunate. Channel your passions into purposeful action that can benefit others, like refugees and migrants in your community.

An Invitation for ALMSGIVING 

As we approach the Resurrection of our Lord, consider ways you can share the joy of Easter with others. Organise a community meal, or share a moment of celebration with those who may not have the means to do so themselves. Let your almsgiving not just be a gesture of support but a sharing of the joy of Christ’s victory over death.

A highlight on Uganda

Uganda hosts the highest number of refugees and asylum-seekers in Africa, with 1.7 million people who have sought refuge in the country. JRS supports urban refugees in Kampala and those living in settlements in Adjumani, northern Uganda, in the West Nile region. The Kampala Urban Refugee Project assists both refugees and vulnerable host community members—who make up 10– 20% of all people supported by JRS Uganda—living across Kampala’s five divisions. JRS provides education, mental health and psychosocial support, livelihoods assistance, socio-economic integration, pastoral care, and reconciliation initiatives.