Returning home from Nairobi with a heart full of gratitude, Emma realised that her time in Kenya didn’t just change her perspective—it completely transformed how she understood community, faith, and what it truly means to live with joy. "As I reflect on my time in Kenya, I realise that I have come home having received far more than I could ever have given. The people I met have taught me lessons that I know will stay with me for the rest of my life. Their kindness, resilience

In the penultimate chapter of Emma Glenn's Kenyan journey, sitting down with two remarkable women whose lives were shaped by hardship and sustained by faith left her forever changed by their extraordinary resilience. One of the greatest honours of my trip was visiting two remarkable women who live in the Tujisaidie community. They welcomed me into their homes and shared stories that I know I will carry with me for the rest of my life. The first was Lucy Waikiki, who is 82 yea

Continuing her three-week journey in Kenya, Emma was deeply moved by the incredible work of the Tumaini African Foundation and the profound everyday moments that showed her faith in action. I was equally inspired by the adults I met throughout my time in Kenya. Antony Njoroge, his wife Nancy and their children showed me such genuine kindness and generosity throughout my stay. Antony was always happy to drive me to different places, explain the work being carried out in the Tu

Stepping off the plane in Nairobi with a heart full of hope, Emma had no idea that a three-week journey with CMS Ireland would completely reshape her worldview and forge bonds that would last a lifetime. She writes: Before travelling to Nairobi, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. I hoped to be useful, to serve where I was needed, and to experience a different culture, but I never imagined how much the trip would change me personally. One of the greatest privileges of m

During his five-week STEP placement at Cairo cathedral, Revd Mike Buchanan of Rathfarnham Parish wrote a daily blog. On June 5th, he shared a wonderful story of meeting two young women who had experienced a miraculous encounter of their own... “This morning marked my first time preaching—not a word I am particularly fond of—in the Cathedral at the 10:30 AM service. While I have celebrated alone here before, and even served alongside the bishop, today was my turn to go entirel

Stepping into Nairobi for the first time has been an incredible experience. It is a city full of energy and life. The streets are constantly buzzing with brightly painted matatus (privately owned minibuses), boda-bodas (motorcycle taxis) and tuk-tuks weaving their way through the traffic. At first, it feels wonderfully chaotic, but there is a rhythm to it all that quickly becomes part of the city’s charm. One of the things that has stood out to me most, however, is the people

Reflections from Oriel Hosford’s placement in Province Of Alexandria - visiting a school for refugee children run by the Diocese. Notes compiled by Gillian Maganda - CMSI Personnel Manager. What does it look like to give your "second life" to others? After surviving a broken back, Rasha, the principal of Happy Child Nursery, made a promise: to spend her life serving. Today, in the heart of Maadi, she and her husband (a priest and engineer who fixes every broken desk and door)

I’ve had an incredible first few days here. We spent a creative morning beading jewelry and keyrings with the children for the local market—I even picked up a few gifts for my students back home! It was also a privilege to hand over a parish donation from Crosshaven Parish. These funds are going directly toward handwriting supports and a brand-new sensory room for El Manarah school. A few highlights: School Visits: We toured the Episcopal language school! Despite large classe

They say the distance between Cork and Menouf (Egypt) is about 4,000 kilometers, but after Oriel Hosford’s first day at El Manarah school, it feels like she’s stepped into an entirely different world. Here are some of her initial reflections: Day 1: Hello from Menouf! Greetings from the El Manarah special needs school in Egypt! I’ve officially kicked off my 10 days in country , and my heart is already full. I made sure to check with the team first, and they’ve kindly given m