Mission friends, Margaret and Paul Lodge from the UK, visited Durban in March and spent a day with us. Here's what they said:

'Our first stop was at the Chancery to meet Cardinal Wilfrid Napier. We hadn’t expected to meet such a busy man but have always appreciated his letters, and meeting him confirmed our respect.

When we arrived in the beautiful area known as the Valley of 1000 Hills, we understood why – there are hills in all directions with houses scattered everywhere.

We were taken first to an empty building which had been both school and church for the community. On this site, was the tree under which the school
first started. The building is empty now because there is a brand new school and church further down the valley.

Father Frank and Mary Jane showed us their new church which has a regular congregation of about 600, and is testament to the Mission’s efforts and faith.

Following lunch, we were driven to another area of the Valley where a 'Drop in' centre has been established – to demonstrate what the Mission would like to do with the empty building we saw in the morning. A number of children in the area are head of household because of HIV/AIDS. They attend the Drop in centre before and after school.

Before school they are given breakfast; after school they have a cooked lunch, and have somewhere to do their homework, play and learn to keep their school clothes clean.

The facilities were basic but the people running the centre are amazing. Pat is the driving force behind it and has achieved so much.

Too soon, it was time for Lawrence to drive us back to Durban. It was a great day which left us with many indelible images. We really enjoyed being with our new-found Catholic friends and felt a genuine unity with them. It was wonderful to see their commitment to the Zulu people, to witness their care and God’s love in action.’
Margaret and Paul Lodge, UK

'Our visit was an eye-opener, heart-rending and a deeply emotional experience.

'Everything we saw touched us in different ways, and showed us that the prayers and effort we and our friends put in is really worthwhile.

'Every cent counts. And we'd encourage more people to join in, and those who already give to the missions to increase their efforts to support Cardinal Napier in his work.'
William and Mae Wallace, Ireland

'One of your letters mentioned the need for blankets. How horrible that someone should be cold. it broke our hearts. We live in the Catskill Mountains and are used to severe winters, but we simply turn up the thermostat or add another blanket to be comfortable.' Mrs N - USA

Visit us
If you are planning a visit to Durban, why not Email us or telephone +2731 303-1417 to arrange a visit to one of the Missions?