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Thursday, July 25, 2013

A wise old man of God

After we'd finished with the children at the school yesterday, we returned with the two priests, Fr John and Fr Dunstan - who seem to be involved with the teaching the as well - to the monastery next door. They wanted us to meet a very special person living in their guest quarters. 

The priests entered a room while our driver, Edward (not my askari Edward!) told us that we were about to meet the first priest of Shinyanga who had been ordained in 1955. Edward was thrilled to be in the party going to visit the priest as many years ago he'd been the driver for the Bishop of Mwanza and got to know this priest too. 

 We waited in the courtyard while the local priests requested and audience with the old priest! (Edward in blue jacket, near Amanda, could hardly contain his excitement, bless him!)


Finally we were invited into a rather dark room where we were introduced to. Fr Zakaria Buluda had all his faculties.  At 91 years-old he was a little hard of hearing, and Fr John had to repeat things for him yet he had use of all his faculties. He also exuded warmth, wisdom and a lovely sense of humor. For instance, when Fr John introduced first Amanda, then me and then Rina, and told him we were from Mwadui, he said he was thrilled to see three ladies from a mining town which he'd heard was "going down" Amanda explained that at one stage many years ago, the town was almost "dead" but since then it has picked up to what it is now. So Fr Zakaria said it was obvious we expat ladies had brought life to the town! Fr John also told him that that day we'd brought toys, hats, food and drinks for the children at the school to which he replied: "Ah, those albino children need support, so thank you very much!" 

As I watched  his serene countenance and listened to his deep voice, I thought how much he reminded me  of our dear Nelson Mandela. Fr John had agreed that I could take photos. In deference to the old man, I didn't use a flash, so my photo isn't all that clear. But I'm sure anyone reading this post can see the peace and serenity on his face.

 Fr Zakaria Buluda, at 91, the first priest ordained in Shinyanga in 1955


Before we left, Fr John asked if Fr Zakaria would bless us all, which he did. Meeting this man,  was a very special (albeit impromptu!) part of our day at the School for the Blind and Endangered Children this week.

10 comments:

  1. What a heartwarming story Jo. I hope that the dear wise man of God will be very happy for the rest of his time on earth. It seems he has had a long life of service much like dear Madiba.

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  2. Jo, sounds like you had a wonderful visit to the school and meeting with Father Zakaria. Thanks for sharing, have a great day!

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  3. What a privilege for you all. He sure does look serene, calm and happy. He must have seen some changes in his near century of life. Is Tanzania predominantly Christian?

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  4. His skin is so firm.
    He looks much younger!

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  5. A wonderful story indeed, Jo! Thank you so much for sharing it! Such a wonderful man!!

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  6. Hope I look as good at 91! I'm sure it was a blessing to meet him.

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  7. Oh such a wonderful honor for you all. Good things happen to good people. Like you.

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  8. He looks so young for his age ! Unbelievable ! What a nice event for you. I am in Eastbourne now.

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  9. His countenance is one of peace and joy. He sounds like a warm and loving man.

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  10. Hello Jo it's nice reading this about my grandfather we all appreciate his wisdom and wise words that we got to know from him. Just to let you know Fr Zakaria as passed away and will be laid to rest on Wednesday next week lets keep on praying for him for his soul to rest in peace

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