Newman Mission Activities and Information: Children at the Timau Mission

Throughout 2017: We received these notes from Sister Joanne Gangloff along with the photos:

Dear Members of the John Newman Mission Community,

Hi and Happy New Year. Sorry Freddy's update is late. I couldn't send it in with Duncan's and Wendy's because he was involved in the circumcision program which boys undergo between 8th grade and high school. (Sr Joanne went on to say: They go into seclusion for about 2 weeks to do this. These days it's done with sterilized knives and the use of antiseptics etc. by a doctor to avoid some of the side affects of the past like sepsis, bleeding etc. During those two weeks they are taught by local priests and elders about their traditions and culture and future etc. It's a really big event for them.)
... But he was in the office today getting his needs for high school and so I took the chance to get these photos and a letter. He will be reporting to high school tomorrow and is very excited about it....he sure is growing up from the little boy he was when you took him on. Thanks for your continued sponsorship of him. All the best in the new year. Stay warm! God bless. Sr. Joanne

Photos of Freddy, and he with his mother.

Earlier in 2017, we received these updates on Wendy and Duncan:

Dear John Newman Mission Community Members, Hope everyone's fine and enjoying the spring weather which I hear will become very summerlike in a few days time. Attached are a few pictures of Duncan and Wendy plus their letters. They are both doing so well. Freddy is in 8th grade this year and goes to another school off the compound (we only go up to grade 6 now here at St. Elizabeth's), so I don't have his update at this moment. I will catch him a bit later so you will be hearing from him too.

Take care and God bless. Sr. Joanne