The ICOF programme started with the thirteen participants from different congregations, missionary priests and religious sisters with four coordinators on the 1st of June 2016.
We are accomodated in the beautiful place, Stella Maris Hotel (Star of the Sea) by the shores of the Indian Ocean in Bagamoyo, Tanzania.
| Environment of our Renewal Program |
The local ordinary Most Rt. Rev. Telesphore Mkude Bishop of the Diocese of Morogoro led us in the opening Mass assisted by the Local Parish Priest and One of ICOF program coordinator on the 2nd of June 2016.
| Participants with Bishop Telesphore Mkude (Diocese of Morogoro) |
On the 1st of June we had a guided tour of the places of interest of Bagamoyo and its ancient History of Catholicism and the slave trade.
The first week was taken up by exploring Theory U as a tool for personal and collective transformation processes. This process we explored on personal basis and in smaller groups of about four participants each.
The program also includes prayer of the Divine office, Meditation and Eucharistic celebration. These adapted and inculturated in line with the participants experiential lives and the module being examined.
| Fr. Julieto and Fr. Gustave concelebrating |
| Our prayer place |
Our common aim of the renewal programme was phrased as, “Rooted in Christ, we discover ourselves for the joyful witness of the Gospel.”
| Our Common Intent |
The participants get in touch not only with their intellect but also affectively in a playful and creative way.
A lot of sharing of personal histories in a smaller groups and as a whole group was quite fruitful and enriching. A successful week and an enriching experience.
| Participants in group sharing |
By: Fr. Everisto Mwelwa, M.Afr.
Missionary from working in Ethiopia