Ministering as an educator and a Pilgrim of Hope

Reflection by Sister Maureen Wekesa

Sister Maureen Wekesa with Students of St Francis Kiptere, Kenya

In the spirit of our mission, education is seen as a sacred pilgrimage, a journey that not only involves the transmission of knowledge but also the nurturing of souls. As School Sisters of Notre Dame, we are called to inspire, empower, and guide our students toward growth, both academically and spiritually. Education transcends the mere act of delivering information; it is a profound pilgrimage that educators embark upon, marked by adventure, discovery, and growth.

My experience in Kiptere community Kenya, at Saint Francis Girls Junior and Senior School has been wonderful and a blessing. It is a great joy to touch lives of young girls whom we are grooming to become future leaders. Every day as I offer my time and energy to serve in God’s vineyard, I always feel happy and fulfilled. As a school bursar, I witness firsthand the intricate tapestry of learning woven by our teachers and students. As Pilgrimages often involve shared experiences so does the journey of education. We create an environment where students feel valued and heard, fostering a sense of belonging and homeliness. Like a spiritual family, we support one another, sharing our successes and challenges. In my ministry, I strive to cultivate a nurturing community, among students, staff, parents, suppliers and any other visitor who comes to our school. Every pilgrimage begins with a call, a deep passion for imparting knowledge and shaping young minds.

Just as pilgrims set forth with a sense of purpose and clarity, educators step into their roles with the intention of nurturing curiosity and inspiration. This calling is often rooted in personal experiences, values and a vision for creating an enriching learning environment. As I nurture students into our catholic faith and doctrines, I appreciate the spirit of team work among the students as they share their gifts in different aspects like school choir, lay readers, mass servers, decorators, liturgical dancers and taking care of our environment at school and church. The openness to learn, acquire more skills and knowledge is evident in these young girls full of vigor.

Sister Maureen Wekesa with Students of St Francis Kiptere, Kenya
(Select image to enlarge.)

Like any pilgrimage, the path of education is fraught with challenges. We encounter diverse needs, emotional struggles, and external pressures that can often feel overwhelming. Yet, it is through these trials that we grow in wisdom and resilience. Each difficulty teaches us to adapt, innovate and deepen our understanding of our students. As sisters, we are called to model perseverance and faith, demonstrating that challenges can serve for spiritual and personal growth. A significant aspect of any pilgrimage is reflection, we must regularly pause to assess our approaches, understanding the impact we have on our students’ lives. It is in these moments of contemplation that we can find grace and renewal. Whether through prayer, discussion with colleagues, or quiet reflection, these practices allow us to realign our mission with our actions, ensuring that we remain centered on our purpose. I remain a pilgrim in my ministry sharing my love, faith, and hope; making Christ visible by my very being.