"I am going to a new country but among my confreres!"

By Cl. Lyonnel Bouanga

Cl. Lyonnel Richie Éric Bouanga is 28 years old from Congo Brazzaville. “My parents live in Pointe-Noire, the second largest city. When I told my parents my missionary destination, they have been very supportive of my missionary vocation but their question to me was ‘Where are Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands?’ I had to make a little catechesis to make them understand how I accepted to go to a place where I don't know anyone.”

“I'm going to a place where everything will be new to me, like the languages, the way of life, and so many other surprises. But I am happy to be part of a multicultural PGS Vice Province composed of my brother Salesians from 14 countries. I'm sure I'll find confreres who will welcome me with open arms. Already now they make me feel welcomed. However, my main task now is to learn the English language well. The General Councillor for Missions told us that we need to reach B2 level of English. At this moment, this is my main goal.”

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