A new presbytery in Lakka

There is great rejoicing in the parish of Our Lady of Perpetual Succour in the suburban parish of Lakka, in Freetown, the capital of Sierra Leone. Thanks to your help, they have been able to consecrate their new presbytery!

It was some time ago that we turned to you for help, for at that time Father Emmanuel Francis Allie was living in a completely dilapidated house, with a leaking roof and a rotting wooden stair that threatened to collapse at any moment. The plumbing and electrical wiring were also in a dire state and the floor of this low-lying building was regularly flooded. Moreover, there was no security, and the house was open to passersby – a real danger, given the high crime rates in the area. It had previously been used to shelter refugees and victims of the civil war, but was now unsafe to live in.

The parishioners had done their best and sacrificed to help their parish priest, but these small contributions came at a great cost given they themselves are poor. As for Father Emmanuel, he considered it far more important to first build a parish church, before thinking of his own needs.

You responded generously to our appeal and as a result, we were able to raise the $63,000 that was needed. The new parish house is now complete and has been consecrated. Father Emmanuel Francis has written to thank all our benefactors. “It is a great joy for me to thank you once again and express my profound appreciation. The money you gave was an immense help for all our parish community. My profound and heartfelt thanks!”