During my years of being Pastor here at St. John the Evangelist Parish in Rochester, MN, we welcomed refugees from what was Sudan, a country riddled with fifty years of Civil War. Twelve years ago, our new friends asked me about the possibility of hosting a priest, Father John Lasuba, who had served in the “bush” of Sudan for ten years as the war continued, to come and serve here at our parish. Father John arrived 11 years ago and has been with us for all of these years, which has witnessed South Sudan being born – the newest country in the world.

Last year, we gave a witness at the CLU vacation in the Rockies about our time together and the creation of an elementary school in Yei, South Sudan, by our parish community. What struck me deeply was the response from the young people – they were moved by our way to be friends, companions. When some of them told me months later how much they appreciated our witness, I immediately responded by acknowledging the gift of the school; I was focused on the fact of us raising a million dollars in funds for these children. However, they pointed primarily to our way to be friends and this is what provoked them about our parish generating a school for 350 children and they would not be in school if we had not met and lived a life of companionship. They called me to look closely at the origin of the educational opportunity, Christ uniting humanity through a meeting, or encounter.

A few weeks ago, I traveled to Yei, South Sudan to dedicate the school that has been open for a few months. Father John is working on his green card and could not travel at this time, but I took him with him as a companion in the Spirit. It was very precious to see the children arrive, some walking two or three miles from their huts to arrive at the rural school. Then there is porridge at 10:30 am and beans at 1:30 pm – so important for the totality of the person, to be nurtured in every way. This land is often referred to by leaders in world as the place most lacking in humanitarian co-existence, and is labeled as violent and brutal. It is clear, they have suffered intensely and the need for peace continues, but this gift of education is the beginning of a new life and it has been generated by a companionship.

When I was being asked to host Father John, there were many serious complications about his status with a visa and multiple serious issues about his country, but I listened to him on the phone and there was a conscious awareness in my heart of Father Giussani. I distinctly remember thinking, “Father Giussani would say “yes” to this priest and even though it is really complicated, I am saying “yes”.” Grateful to the charism of Don Gius that led to a companionship that generated a beautiful school on the other side of the world.

Fr. Jerry Mahon, Minnesota, USA