2025年9月28日日曜日

会報49号を掲載しました。 2025年度を振り返って

  会報49号を掲載しました。上のメニューバーの「会報」をクリックし、49号をダウンロードしてご覧になってください。また、この会報には別刷り資料として、2025年度の会計報告や代表からの「2025年度を振り返って」が挿入しされています。この下に「2025年度を振り返って」とそのスペイン語訳・英語訳を紹介します。


「2025年度を振り返って」   代表 菅野勝治郎

決して乾かない水

“ともに歩む会”の今年度1年間の歩みを振り返っていて、ふと、「私が与える水を飲む者は決して乾かない。・・・」というイエス様の言葉(ヨハネ:4章)を思い出しました。

2025年度は2024年度よりも約20万円増額の予算を立てました。それは、シスター白幡がお世話になることの多いマイル91クリニックの支援を増額したためです。

年度末送金予定日に近い6月中旬になり、本部の預金残高が130万円からなかなか増えず、150万円の年度内送金は無理かなと心配している折に、ある教会の“ともに歩む会グループ”の皆さんから25万円の支援金が届けられました。おかげで、628日に今年度最後の支援金として150万円を送金し、本年度予定していた送金960万円を100%達成することができました。

この教会の“ともに歩む会グループ”の皆さんは、毎週の礼拝後に手作りのケーキを販売し、その収益をプールしてお捧げくださるそうです。勿論、このグループの皆さんの働きのお陰だけで年間送金目標が達成できたという訳ではありません。1年間を通してお捧げいただく支援金一つひとつの積み重ねのお陰です。

“ともに歩む会”に大きな井戸が託されていて、そこから必要に応じて必要な水(支援金)を現地に送っている訳ではなく、小さな乾き易い井戸ですが、そこに主がそして支援者の皆様が枯れることなく水を注いでくださいます。それを少しも無駄にせず、シエラレオネの子ども達のために送り続けることが私たちに与えられた使命であると考えています。

井戸に蓄えられた大量の水から必要な水を汲み上げて送金し続けるのではなく、送金の度に井戸はカラ状態になりますが、次の送金の時期までに、不思議に必要な額が蓄えられていて無事に送金出来て感謝する・・・ということの繰り返しでした。

今までは「今年も奇跡がおきた」と受け止めていましたが、すべてが神様のご計画のうちに行われているとの思いを強くしています。今年度は205名の支援者と54の団体様から、累計583回の支援金送金をいただきました。年度末にあたり、その一つひとつのご支援に心から感謝申し上げます。

重なる感謝

皆様のご支援によって、年度初めに計画した支援金送金が100%達成できたこと以外にも、様々な嬉しいできごとがあった1年間でした。思いつくままにいくつか述べさせていただきます。(支援達成率が100%未満の項目もありますが、送金予約時のレートよりも円高での送金になったためです。)

 

   まず第一にシスター白幡の希望であったパソコ

ンをお届けすることができたことです。前のパソコンはとても調子が悪く、メールの送受信も思うようにできない状態が続いていました。

町田カルバリーチャペルの牧師で電気技師でもあられる大塚信頼牧師が機種の選定から初期設定までやってくださり、それを開発コンサルタントとしてシエラレオネで農業指導をしておられる君島崇様に運んでいただきました。そして忙しい日程をやりくりしてルンサまで届けて下さり、シスター白幡がパソコンをうまく使える様に懇切丁寧に教えてくださいました。お陰で、シスターは今回の会報の原稿も早々に届けてくださいました。なお、このパソコンの購入に際してはシスター白幡のご親族の皆様からその費用をご寄付いただきました。

 

   龍谷大学教授の落合雄彦先生が、2月と8月 

にルンサを訪問してくださいました。2 月の時には姪御さんで医師の落合紗雪さんも同道され、マイル91クリニック等で医療奉仕をしてくださり、その訪問記を会報48号に寄稿してくださいました。それを読まれた支援者のお一人はつぎのような感想をよせてくださいました。 

落合沙雪さんのシエラレオネ在記、文面から動が飛び出してくるような面白さで一気にみました。そして思わず落するほど心がさぶられました。若くて柔らかく自由な感性を持った沙雪さんには、これからもい世界でたくさんの人と出い、や民族のを超えた未を切り開いて行ってほしいと心から願います。高者や障がい者、移住者への療にかける費用を、無駄遣いかのように扱う世論がまりつつある中で、沙雪さんのような心情を持った若い療者が居られるのを知り、ほっと安堵しました。」(濱本緑様)

落合雄彦先生は8月には奥様で神戸女学院大学教授の金田知子先生と一緒にシエラレオネを再訪問されました。(訪問記は次号の会報に寄稿していただきます。)訪問の度に、私どもからシスター白幡に届けて欲しい品々をスーツケース一杯に運んでくださいました。

 

   北九州アフリカ友の会によるフリーマーケット、

カトリック世田谷教会・はやしグループによる「蚤の市」、カトリック鹿島田教会のチャリティーコンサート、玉川学園展におけるシスター白幡刺繍作品頒布会と「籠の風車」募金会、カトリック世田谷教会・アンサンブル・ユビラーテ チャリティーコンサート など、シエラレオネ支援のためのイベントを沢山開催していただきました。

本部が把握している以外にも、各学校や教会等で様々な募金活動を行っていてくださることに、心より感謝いたします。

 

   2023101日に交通事故で大けがをされ、

その回復が思わしくないので母国メキシコに帰国して療養しておられた幼稚園の園長であり、地区の会計主任であるシスターエスメラルダがこの513日に無事に戻られたことも大きな感謝でした。帰任して早速ですが、今回の財務報告も書きあげてくださいました。シスターエスメラルダが無事に帰任されて一番喜んでいるのはシスター白幡ではないでしょうか。

 

   今年1年間を振り返って、一番の感謝は、何と

言ってもシスター白幡がずっとお元気で現地でご奉仕くださっていることです。先日いただいたメールには次のようなことが書かれていました。

「私は何もしていませんが、もう8月ですね。150万円を調達するのは大変だったことと思います。神様はいつもわたしたちの必要を見ていてくださいます・・・」

 新進気鋭のシスター ジョセフィン・カマラ地区長の大きな働きにも感謝します。お陰様で充実した会報を1年間お送りすることができました。そして「居るだけ」と言われるシスター白幡の存在に大きな大きな勇気と励ましをいただいています。

本部からのお知らせ

   820日にジョナサン グッドリッチ氏とルミさん

にお会いしました。TICAD9に参加されたシエラレオ政府要人との面談をセットしてくださいました。その際、コンテナによる支援物資輸送の再開についても話し合いましたが、グッドリッチ氏の健康がだいぶ快復したので、来年にはコンテナ輸送を再開したいとのことでした。船賃や税金が高騰しているので、輸送費の補助をお願いしたいと思う、との話もいただきました。最近、日本で生活するシエラレオネ人が多くなり、その方たちからも「輸送費は出すから荷物を送って欲しい」との要望が多いそうです。今までは、全くの無償でご奉仕いただきましたが、私どもとしても、船による郵送が途絶えている今、たとえ有償になってでも現地が望む品を送ることができれば嬉しい事だと期待しています。(正式に決まりましたらお知らせしますので、それまでは本部に荷物を送ることはお控えください。)

   1年前の会報45号にて、郵便料金値上げに際

し、郵便料金節約のために、領収証の送付を<不要>と申し出て下さった場合、領収証送付を割愛させていただく旨のご連絡をさせていただきました。その趣旨にご賛同いただけた方に改めて感謝いたします。お陰様で通信費は30万円の予算でしたが、20万円弱の支出で済みました。

 尚、日々郵送にて送られていた「振替受払通知票」を「ゆうちょダイレクト」を通してウェブサイトで受信するようにしたことも、郵送料の節約に役立ちました。

また、今年度も未使用切手を28,567円分ご寄付いただき、助かりました。

    シスター白幡刺繍支援として協力を呼び掛け

ておりましたシスターの刺入りのトートバッグ等は、お陰様で完売状態になっています。次の作品の準備ができ次第、ウェブサイトや会報でご連絡しますのでよろしくお願いいたします。また、広島大学の村上かおり先生がMI職業訓練校の生徒たちに指導されたモモヨポーチ20個も支援者の皆様にご購入いただき、完売となりました。その売上金に支援金をプラスして2万円を村上先生にお届けしています。先生が再訪問される場合の生徒たちへのお土産(教材)購入の資金として活用していただきます。

 

2026年度の計画

本部総会では、2026年度も2025年度と同様の支援活動を行うことを目標としました。これは、高齢化が進む私ども本部委員に取りましても高いハードルです。支援者の皆さまのご健康が守られますように切に祈ります。そして、決してご無理をされないようにお願いいたします。現地からも、支援内容の変更等の要望はなく、今年度同様の支援を期待するとの連絡をいただいています。

今年度1年間の大きなご支援に心から御礼申し上げます。そして、皆様のご健康がますます強められますように、重ねてお祈りいたします。


Retrospectiva del Año Fiscal 2025

(Septiembre de 2024 - Agosto de 2025)

13 de septiembre de 2025

Katsujiro Kanno, representante de Caminando Juntos

 

Agua que nunca se seca

 

Al reflexionar sobre el progreso del Grupo Caminando Juntos este año, recordé las palabras de Jesús: "El que beba del agua que yo le daré, no tendrá sed jamás..." (Juan 4).

Para el año fiscal 2025, hemos presupuestado aproximadamente 200.000 yenes más que para el año fiscal 2024. Esto se debe al aumento del apoyo a la Clínica Mile 91, donde la Hermana Shirahata recibe atención médica con frecuencia.

Al acercarse la fecha de remesa de fin de año, a mediados de junio, el saldo de la cuenta de la sede central no había aumentado de 1,3 millones de yenes, y nos preocupaba no poder enviar los 1,5 millones de yenes durante el año. Justo entonces, un “Grupo de Caminando Juntos" de cierta iglesia donó 250.000 yenes. Gracias a esto, el 28 de junio enviamos 1,5 millones de yenes como nuestra última donación del año fiscal, alcanzando así el 100% de la remesa prevista de 9,6 millones de yenes este año.

El "Grupo d Caminando Juntos" de esta iglesia vende pasteles caseros después de los servicios semanales y reune las ganancias para donarlas a la organización benéfica. Claro que no pudimos alcanzar nuestra meta anual de remesas solo con el trabajo de este grupo. Se trata de la acumulación de cada donación que realizan a lo largo del año.

No es que a Caminando Juntos se nos haya confiado un gran pozo del que enviamos agua (donaciones) a las zonas afectadas según sea necesario. Es un pequeño pozo que el Señor y quienes nos apoyan siguen regando para que nunca se seque. Creemos que nuestra misión es no desperdiciar ni una sola gota y seguir enviándola a los niños de Sierra Leona. En lugar de bombear el agua necesaria de la gran cantidad almacenada en el pozo y enviarla una y otra vez, este se vacía con cada remesa, pero para cuando llega la siguiente, la cantidad necesaria se acumula milagrosamente y estamos agradecidos de poder enviarla de forma segura. Este ha sido un ciclo recurrente.

Hasta ahora, este año lo había considerado un milagro, pero ahora creo firmemente que todo está sucediendo según el plan de Dios. Este año, recibimos un total de 583 donaciones de 205 donantes y 54 organizaciones. Al finalizar el año fiscal, queremos expresar nuestra más sincera gratitud por cada uno de ustedes.

 

Gracias de nuevo.

 

Gracias a su apoyo, pudimos alcanzar el 100% de las donaciones que planeamos al inicio del año fiscal. El año pasado estuvo lleno de muchos otros eventos felices. Me gustaría mencionar algunos que me vienen a la mente.

 

 En primer lugar, pudimos proporcionarle a la Hermana Shirahata una computadora, que había solicitado. Su computadora anterior estaba en muy mal estado, lo que dificultaba incluso enviar y recibir correos electrónicos.

El pastor Nobuyuki Otsuka, pastor e ingeniero eléctrico de la Capilla del Calvario de Machida, ayudó con todo, desde la selección del modelo hasta su configuración, y luego se la entregó a Takashi Kimijima, un consultor de desarrollo que trabaja en Sierra Leona y ofrece orientación agrícola, generosamente saco tiempo en su en su apretada agenda para entregar la computadora a Lunsar y enseñó cuidadosamente a la Hermana Shirahata a usarla correctamente. Gracias a esto, la Hermana Shirahata pudo entregar puntualmente el manuscrito para este boletín. Además, los familiares de la Hermana Shirahata donaron el costo de la compra de esta computadora.

 

 El profesor Takehiko Ochiai, de la Universidad de Ryukoku, visitó Lunsar en febrero y agosto. En febrero, su sobrina, la Dra. Sayuki Ochiai, lo acompañó, prestándole servicios médicos en la Clínica Mile 91 y otros centros. Aportó un relato de su visita en el boletín número 48. Un benefactor que lo leyó compartió la siguiente opinión:

"Leí el relato de Ochiai Sayuki sobre su tiempo en Sierra Leona en un santiamén. Fue tan fascinante que parecía como si los vídeos saltaran de las páginas. Me conmovió hasta las lágrimas. Sayuki es joven, tiene una sensibilidad tierna y libre, y espero sinceramente que siga conociendo a mucha gente en el mundo y labrando un futuro que trascienda las fronteras nacionales y étnicas. En un momento en que se extiende la opinión pública de que los gastos médicos de las personas mayores, las personas con discapacidad y los migrantes son un desperdicio, me alivió saber que hay jóvenes profesionales de la salud con sentimientos como los de Sayuki." (Hamamoto Midori)

En agosto, el Dr. Takehiko Ochiai regresó a Sierra Leona con su esposa, la profesora Tomoko Kaneda, de la Universidad de Mujeres de Kobe. (Su relato de la visita se publicará en el próximo boletín). En cada visita, llevan una maleta llena de artículos que solicitábamos que se entregaran a la Hermana Shirahata.

 

 Se han organizado numerosos eventos para apoyar a Sierra Leona, incluyendo un mercadillo organizado por la Asociación de Amistad con África de Kitakyushu, un mercadillo organizado por la Iglesia Católica de Setagaya y el Grupo Hayashi, un concierto benéfico organizado por la Iglesia Católica de Kashimada, la distribución de bordados de la Hermana Shirahata y una recaudación de fondos "Molino de Canasta" en la Exposición Tamagawa Gakuen, y un concierto benéfico organizado por la Iglesia Católica de Setagaya y el Ensemble Jubilate.

Agradecemos profundamente las diversas actividades de recaudación de fondos que se están llevando a cabo en escuelas e iglesias, además de las que se llevan a cabo bajo la supervisión de la sede central.

 

④ La Hermana Esmeralda, directora de jardín de infantes y tesorera del distrito, resultó gravemente herida en un accidente de tránsito el 1 de octubre de 2023 y, debido a una recuperación precaria, regresó a su país natal, México, para recuperarse. También agradecemos su regreso sano y salvo el 13 de mayo. Poco después de regresar a su puesto, completó este informe financiero. La Hermana Shirahata es probablemente la persona más contenta del regreso sano y salvo de la Hermana Esmeralda.

 

⑤ Al recordar este último año, lo que más agradezco es, sin duda, la buena salud de la Hermana Shirahata y su continuo servicio en las zonas afectadas. Me escribió lo siguiente en un correo electrónico que recibí el otro día:

"No he hecho nada, pero ya estamos en agosto. Me imagino que debe haber sido difícil recaudar 1,5 millones de yenes. Dios siempre ve nuestras necesidades..."

También estoy agradecido por la excelente labor de nuestra prometedora Hermana, la Superiora de Distrito Josephine Kamara. Gracias a ella, hemos podido enviar un boletín informativo completo durante un año. Y la presencia de la Hermana Shirahata, que a menudo se describe como "simplemente estar ahí", nos infunde gran valor y ánimo.

 

Anuncio de la Sede

 

 Me reuní con Jonathan Goodrich y Rumi el 20 de agosto. Organizaron una reunión con funcionarios del gobierno de Sierra Leona que asistían a la TICAD 9. Hablamos sobre la reanudación de los envíos de ayuda en contenedores y, dado que la salud de los señores Goodrich ha mejorado considerablemente, manifestaron su deseo de reanudarlos el próximo año. También nos informaron que, debido al aumento de los costos de envío y los impuestos, desearían recibir ayuda con los gastos de envío. Recientemente, el número de sierraleoneses que viven en Japón ha aumentado, y hemos recibido numerosas solicitudes para enviar artículos a la comunidad local, incluso pagando el envío. Hasta ahora, este servicio era completamente gratuito, pero ahora que se ha interrumpido el envío marítimo, esperamos poder enviar los artículos que la comunidad local desee, incluso pagando una tarifa. (Les notificaremos una vez que se tome la decisión oficial; hasta entonces, les rogamos que se abstengan de enviar artículos a la sede central).

 

② En nuestro boletín informativo, número 45, de hace un año, anunciamos que, en respuesta al aumento de las tarifas postales, eximiríamos de los recibos a quienes solicitaran "sin recibos" para ahorrar en el franqueo. Queremos expresar nuestro sincero agradecimiento a quienes apoyaron esta iniciativa. Gracias a su apoyo, pudimos reducir nuestros gastos de comunicación a poco menos de 200.000 yenes, frente a nuestro presupuesto de 300.000 yenes. Además, hemos ahorrado en gastos de envío postal al pasar de recibir recibos de transferencia y avisos de pago diarios a través de "Yucho Direct" a recibirlos en nuestro sitio web.

También recibimos una generosa donación de 28.567 yenes en sellos postales sin usar este año.

 

③ Gracias a su apoyo, las bolsas de mano bordadas y otros artículos que solicitamos como parte de nuestro Programa de Apoyo al Bordado de la Hermana Shirahata se han agotado. Les notificaremos en nuestro sitio web y en nuestro boletín informativo en cuanto esté disponible el siguiente lote. Asimismo, nuestros colaboradores adquirieron y agotaron 20 bolsas Momoyo, que la Sra. Kaori Murakami, de la Universidad de Hiroshima, utilizaba para dar clases a los estudiantes de la Escuela de Formación Profesional MI. Hemos sumado nuestra donación a la recaudación, por un total de 20.000 yenes, y la enviaremos a la Sra. Murakami. Esta recaudación se utilizará para comprar recuerdos (materiales didácticos) para sus alumnos en caso de que regrese.

 

Planes para 2026

 

En la Asamblea General de la Sede, nos propusimos continuar con las actividades de apoyo en 2026 de forma similar a las de 2025. Este es un gran reto para nosotros. Rezamos sinceramente para que todos nuestros colaboradores, que envejecen cada año, se mantengan sanos. También les pedimos que no se esfuercen demasiado. Hemos recibido información de quienes trabajan en Sierra Leona que no han solicitado cambios en el apoyo brindado y que esperan el mismo nivel de apoyo este año.

Nos gustaría expresar nuestra sincera gratitud por su generoso apoyo durante el último año. También rezamos una vez más para que su salud siga mejorando.


 Traducción por Marta Tanaka



 

Looking Back on Fiscal Year 2025 (September 2024 - August 2025)  

September 13, 2025  

Katsujiro Kanno, Representative of the Walking Together Association 

 

WATER THAT NEVER DRIES UP 

As I reflected on the progress of the Walking Together Association this year, I was reminded of Jesus' words (John 4): "Whoever drinks of the water I give him will never thirst..."  

 

For fiscal year 2025, we have increased our budget by approximately 200,000 yen compared to fiscal year 2024. This is due to increased support for Mile 91 Clinic, where Sister Shirahata frequently receives care. 

 

As we approached the scheduled end-of-year remittance date in mid-June, our headquarters' account balance had not increased significantly from 1.3 million yen, and we were worried that we might not be able to remit the 1.5 million yen within the fiscal year. Just then, a "Walking Together Group" from a certain church donated 250,000 yen. Thanks to this donation, we were able to remit 1.5 million yen as our final donation of the fiscal year on June 28, achieving 100% of our planned remittance of 9.6 million yen.  

The "Walking Together Group" from this church sells homemade cakes after each service and pools the proceeds for donation. Of course, it's not just the work of this group that enabled us to achieve our annual remittance goal; it's the cumulative contributions of each individual donation throughout the year that count. 

 

It's not that a large well has been entrusted to Walking Together Association and we send water (donations) from there to the local area as needed. The well is small and prone to drying up, but the Lord and our supporters keep it flowing with water so that it never runs dry. We believe it is our mission to continue sending water to the children of Sierra Leone without wasting any of it. 

 

Rather than continually pumping the necessary water from the vast amount stored in the well and sending it, the well would empty with each remittance. However, by the time the next remittance was due, the necessary amount would miraculously be stored, and we would be able to send the money safely, giving thanks... This was a cycle that continued over and over again. 

 

Until now, I've viewed this as another miracle this year, but I now feel more strongly that everything is happening according to God's plan. This year, we received a total of 583 donations from 205 donors and 54 organizations. As the fiscal year comes to an end, I would like to express my sincere gratitude for each and every one of your support. 

 

MANY THANKS TO YOUR SUPPORT 

We were able to achieve 100% of the donations we planned at the beginning of the year. This past year was filled with many other wonderful events. Here are a few that come to mind. (Some donations are less than 100% complete, but this was because the yen was stronger than the exchange rate at the time of the transfer reservation.) 

 

1) First and foremost, we were able to deliver Sister Shirahata's requested computer. Her previous computer was in very poor condition, making it difficult to even send and receive emails.  

 

Pastor Nobuyuki Otsuka, pastor of Machida Calvary Chapel and electrical engineer, handled everything from selecting the model to setting it up, and then had it delivered by Takashi Kimijima, a development consultant who provides agricultural guidance in Sierra Leone. He then made time in his busy schedule to deliver it to Lunsar and patiently taught Sister Shirahata how to use the computer. Thanks to this, Sister Shirahata was able to promptly deliver the manuscript for this newsletter. The purchase of this computer was also funded by donations from Sister Shirahata's family. 

 

2) Professor Takehiko Ochiai of Ryukoku University visited Lunsar in February and August. During the February visit, his niece, Dr. Sayuki Ochiai, accompanied him. She volunteered at Mile 91 Clinic and other locations, and contributed an account of their visit to our newsletter, Issue 48.  

 

One supporter who read it shared the following sentiment: "Sayuki Ochiai's article of her time in Sierra Leone was so fascinating that it almost seemed as if videos were popping out of the pages. I read it in one sitting and was moved to tears. Sayuki, a young woman with a soft and free sensibility, will continue to meet many people around the world and carve out a future that transcends national and ethnic boundaries. With growing public opinion regarding medical care for the elderly, people with disabilities, and migrants as a waste, I felt a sense of relief knowing that there are young medical professionals like Sayuki who share her sentiments." (by Midori Hamamoto) 

 

In August, Dr. Takehiko Ochiai returned to Sierra Leone with his wife, Professor Tomoko Kaneda of Kobe College. (His article of the visit will be published in the next newsletter.) Each time, he brought a suitcase full of items we requested be delivered to Sister Shirahata. 

 

3) Many events have been held to support Sierra Leone, including a flea market by the Kitakyushu Africa Friendship Association, a flea market by the Catholic Setagaya Church and Hayashi Group, a charity concert by the Catholic Kashimada Church, a distribution of Sister Shirahata embroidery works and a "Basket Windmill" fundraiser at the Tamagawa Gakuen Exhibition, and a charity concert by the Catholic Setagaya Church and Ensemble Jubilate. We are sincerely grateful for the various fundraising activities being conducted at schools, churches, and other institutions in addition to those known to headquarters. 

3) Many events have been held to support Sierra Leone, including a flea market by the Kitakyushu Africa Friendship Association, a flea market by the Catholic Setagaya Church and Hayashi Group, a charity concert by the Catholic Kashimada Church, a distribution of Sister Shirahata embroidery works and a "Basket Windmill" fundraiser at the Tamagawa Gakuen Exhibition, and a charity concert by the Catholic Setagaya Church and Ensemble Jubilate. We are sincerely grateful for the various fundraising activities being conducted at schools, churches, and other institutions in addition to those known to headquarters. 

 

4) We are also extremely grateful for the safe return of Sister Esmeralda, the kindergarten principal and district treasurer. She was seriously injured in a traffic accident on October 1, 2023, and returned to her home country of Mexico to recuperate due to poor recovery. She quickly completed this financial report upon her return. Sister Shirahata must be the one who is most pleased about Sister Esmeralda's safe return. 

 

5) Looking back over the past year, what I'm most grateful for is that Sister Shirahata continues to be in good health and continue to serve in the actual place. In an email I received the other day, she wrote: "I haven't done anything, but it's already August. I imagine it must have been difficult to raise 1.5 million yen. God always sees our needs..."  

 

I'm also grateful for the outstanding work of our up-and-coming district leader, Sister Josephine Camara. Thanks to her, we've been able to send you a comprehensive newsletter for a year. And Sister Shirahata, whose presence is often described as "just being there," has given me immense courage and encouragement. 

 

MESSAGE FROM HEADQUARTERS 

 

1) We met with Jonathan Goodrich and Rumi on August 20th. They arranged a meeting with Sierra Leone government officials attending TICAD 9. We discussed the resumption of containerized relief shipments, and Mr. Goodrich's health has improved considerably, so they hope to resume container shipments next year. They also mentioned that they would like to request subsidies for shipping costs due to rising shipping fares and taxes. Recently, the number of Sierra Leoneans living in Japan has increased, and they have been requesting that they pay for shipping to send packages. Until now, their service has been completely free, but with the current suspension of shipping by sea, we hope to be able to send needed items to the actual place, even if it requires a fee. (We will let you know once an official decision has been made; until then, please refrain from sending packages to Headquarters.) 

 

2) In our newsletter, Issue 45, a year ago, we announced that, in response to the postal rate increase, we would omit sending receipts if you requested not to receive one in order to save on postage. We would like to express our sincere gratitude to those who agreed with this policy. Thanks to your support, our communication expenses, which were budgeted at 300,000 yen, were reduced to just under 200,000 yen. Furthermore, switching from receiving "Transfer Payment Notices" daily by mail to receiving them on our website via "Yucho Direct" also helped us save on postage costs. We were also grateful for the donation of 28,567yen worth of unused stamps this year. 

 

3) Thanks to your support, the embroidered tote bags and other items we requested as part of our support for Sister Shirahata Embroidery have sold out. We will notify you on our website and newsletter as soon as our next works are ready, so please stay tuned.  

 

Also, 20 Momoyo pouches, which were instructed by Hiroshima University's Kaori Murakami to students at MI Vocational Training School, were also sold out by our supporters. We have added our donation to the sales proceeds, totaling 20,000 yen, and are sending them to Ms. Murakami. They will be used to purchase souvenirs (teaching materials) for the students when she returns. 

 

PLANS FOR THE YEAR 2026 

Plans for 2026 At the headquarters general meeting, we set a goal of providing the same level of support activities in 2026 as in 2025. This is a high hurdle, even for us headquarters committee members, as our population continues to age. We sincerely pray for the health of all supporters and ask that you do not overexert yourself. We have received word from the local community that there have been no requests for changes to the support provided and that they expect the same support this year.                                          We would like to express our sincere gratitude for your generous support this year, and we pray once again that your health will continue to improve. 

 

(Translation by A. Yamamoto) 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


2025年9月27日土曜日

Walking Together Bulletin No.49

 


 

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“TO REPRESENTATIVE KANNO AND

SUPPORTERS OF WALKING TOGETHER”

AUGUST 12, 2025

BY MOTHER MARTA G.HERNANDEZ M. DEL C.,

SUPERIOR GENERAL OF
THE CLARISSAN MISSIONAEY SISTERS OF THE BLESSED SACRAMWNT

 

 

"The richness of our existence is connected to knowing how to accept and share with joy. In this worldly reality, everything has meaning only insofar as it connects us to God and to our brothers and sisters in love." (Pope Leo XIV, Jubilee Year for Young People 2025)

 

Peace and joy in Christ are our hope! Once again, thank you for all the news you share with us through our newsletter. The newsletter is a way to deepen fellowship and nourish our hope, and thanks to your individual contributions, we see so many smiling faces.

 

The Holy Year we are experiencing encourages us to cultivate foresight, confident that God keeps his promises and directs all events toward good and happiness. We are grateful for the gift that our beloved Pope Francis has bestowed upon the Church and the world. His smile and teachings will continue to bring fruit to people's hearts. With this confidence, we continue to walk together as witnesses of hope to this world, under the guidance of the new Shepherd God has given us, Pope Leo XIV.

 

I would like to express my gratitude once again to each of our donors for their love for the mission, their tireless generosity, and their desire to bring hope to our beloved brothers and sisters in Sierra Leone. Thank you for bringing light to so many lives. May God Dear Mr. Kanno and all supporters of "Walking Together," I greet you in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. This year's report will be written in the form of a letter addressed to you and all supporters of "Walking Together." Over the years, and especially this year, you have walked very closely with us, making most, if not all, of our school plans a reality. Despite all the economic challenges facing the world today, you have continued to support us unwaveringly, helping us advance our mission and improve people's lives. himself reward you. With love and fellowship in prayer.

 

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ANNUAL REPORT FROM THE REGIONAL SUPERIOR

AUGUST 13, 2025

BY SISTER JOSEPHINE KAMARA,

REGIONAL SUPERIOR

 

Dear Mr. Kanno and all supporters of "Walking Together,"

 I greet you in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. This year's report will be written in the form of a letter addressed to you and all supporters of "Walking Together."

 

 Over the years, and especially this year, you have walked very closely with us, making most, if not all, of our school plans a reality. Despite all the economic challenges facing the world today, you have continued to support us unwaveringly, helping us advance our mission and improve people's lives.

 

While many students enrolled this school year, which ended on July 18, 2025, OLG saw a decline in student enrollment compared to previous years. This is partly due to the expansion of schools in the town of Lunsar and partly due to families who came to the mine seeking employment quickly relocating with their children when they were unable to find permanent employment or their contracts ended. However, our commitment to maintaining a high-quality education, our school lunch program run by our long-time supporters, Friends of Walking Together, and the care and attention we show our students continue to attract many students.

 

Our school not only teaches academic subjects, but also works day and night with efficiency and love to develop students as whole people. Because students' social success depends largely on their ability to interact effectively with others and their surroundings, social and cultural activities are also a priority for us.

 

Frankly, we've only made it this far thanks to your support. By using what you donate in a way that ensures it's always enough, we've been able to get through the school year without any major challenges. Rather than asking for more support or redirecting each item, we've focused on using your donations for various purposes, ultimately contributing to the well-being of our students and those working in our mission. Thank you so much for everything you've done.

 

Of course, we have challenges, but these are the challenges we face every day as a school. Responsible for a large student population, dealing with their parents, adhering to established policies, and more, we face many challenges. Despite these challenges, however, we are making progress, and our students often tell us, "Thank you for the seeds you planted in my life." For all this, we are truly grateful to God and all of you for your continued support. We continue to sow good seeds, which we hope will produce a bountiful and beneficial harvest for the entire nation and the world.

As we approach the end of the 2024/25 school year, we reflect on our journey. First, we thank God for His love, guidance, and protection, making everything possible. Despite the difficulties and challenges, we are especially grateful for the opportunities we have been given and for our accomplishments. This past year, as always, we were supported by our fellow members of the "Walking Together Association" and our supporters, allowing us to simplify and streamline our activities considerably.

 

 Over the past year, we have engaged in many activities with our students, including academic, social, cultural, and athletic activities, all of which are aimed at holistic human development.

 

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We want to see a better life for our country, because education is the best way to develop our communities and our nation. We believe that if we can train girls and equip them with the best skills, they need for life, they will become better citizens and make a difference in their lives.

 

Despite the many challenges facing our country's education system, we still hope for a brighter future. We strive to make the teaching and learning process as enjoyable as possible, and we always encourage our students to strive to be good students and learn as much as possible.

 

With the majority of students being girls, they represent the nation's future mothers and a shining light of hope. What they learn today will be passed on to their children and their children's children in the future.

 

Based on this philosophy, Our Lady of Guadalupe School has offered vocational training to its students since its founding in 1965. This was done to help students become independent and build families, as most of the students at the time did not have the opportunity to attend university or receive higher education. Today, the situation is somewhat different. Thanks to the support of organizations and individuals like " Walking Together Association" many students are able to continue their university studies without relying solely on their families.

 

Despite these advancements, our school still offers vocational training in home management as part of its curriculum. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Mr. Sugano and to Ms. Chiaki Yoshihara, who is translating. May God continue to bless and protect us abundantly. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to all members of the "Walking Together Association."

Sincerely, Sr. Josephine Kamara, District Director

 

 

2025 ANNUAL FINANCIAL REPORT

September 2024 – August 2025

BY SISTER ESMERALDA FRANCO LEON, AREA CHIEF ACCOUNTANT

 

Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his mercy endures forever. (1 Chronicles 16:34)

 

We thank God for allowing us to walk together with all of you in the Walking Together Association again this past year. Thanks to your tireless efforts, we Missionary Clares have been able to continue to help the vulnerable and provide a better education to the children of Sierra Leone. May God grant abundant blessings to each of our supporters and their families. First, let me announce the student numbers at each of our schools.

 

Enrollment for the 2024-2025 School Year

Tamagawa Shirayuri Kindergarten: 376 (381)

OLG Elementary School: 874 (921)

OLG Junior and Senior High School: 730 (685)

MI Junior and Senior High School: 200 (317)

MI Vocational Training School: 470 (300)

Total: 2,650 (2,604)

   (   )  indicates the number of students from last school year

 

We are grateful for the support we received from the Walking Together Association during the 2024-2025 school year. Below is a breakdown of the support we received between September 2024 and August 2025.

 

1. School Lunch Support: $43,699.70

2. School Education Support: $7,595.00

3. Christmas Gift Support: $633.00

4. Kindergarten Teacher Salary Subsidy: $5,063.00

5. Multipurpose Support: $3,482.00

6. Special Lunch Support: $633.00

7. OLG Medical Support: $671.10

8. Mile 91 Clinic Support: $1,342.30

Total: $63,119.10

 

Next, I'll explain the status of each item.

 

School Lunch Support: $43,699.70

Thanks to your support, we can continue to provide children with healthy meals. This means that they receive a balanced diet fortified with fish every day. Because we are a fishing nation, fish is inexpensive and readily available, providing protein and high-quality nutrients. This school lunch support money pays the salaries of four female chefs.

 

School Education Support/Scholarships: $7,595

We provide educational support to 21 children from financially disadvantaged families at Tamagawa Shirayuri Gakuen Kindergarten. Instead of cash, we provide uniforms, school supplies, and other items.  We provide scholarships to eight university students from OLG schools. We cover semester registration fees, accommodation, and food costs. (Name List omitted)

 

Multipurpose Support: $3,482

Part of the multipurpose support will be used to repair the kitchen where children's meals are prepared every day. The remaining portion will be used to repair a firewood storage area to prevent firewood from being damaged or rendered unusable by rain.

 

Kindergarten Teacher Salary Subsidy: $5,063

Every year, with each donation, we thank God for the opportunity to continue paying stable salaries to our teachers and their families. At the same time, this support serves as a great encouragement for us to work with even greater dedication and enthusiasm for the sake of our children and for improving the quality of education. We are truly grateful for your support this year. (Name List omitted)

 

Christmas Gift Purchase Support: $633

Christmas is a time when every child looks forward to gifts, and Sierra Leone is no exception. Thanks to our generous donors, we are able to provide every child with a Christmas toy. The children look forward to it wholeheartedly, and we get to see the genuine smiles on their faces. Thank you so much for supporting us every year.

 

Special Lunch Subsidy: $633

Every December 12th is a special day for our school. On this day, we celebrate our patron saint, Our Lady of Guadalupe, in an atmosphere filled with joy and gratitude.

 

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Every year, we prepare a special meal for the entire student body, faculty, and staff. Beginning with a Mass of Thanksgiving, students and teachers engage in dance, poetry readings, a play, and, of course, the traditional parade through the streets of Lunsar to announce the joyous celebration.

 

Together with the Missionary Clares, we lovingly remember all the supporters who make this wonderful mission possible. At the end, we all enjoy a special meal together. Thank you, Members of the Walking Together Association. You make all of this possible.

 

Medical Support: $671.10

With this donation, we purchase medical supplies for the school, such as sterile gauze, alcohol, bandages, cotton wool, disinfectant, and ointment for bruises and wounds. It also covers the cost of transporting students whose families are too poor to go to the hospital.

 

Mile 91 Clinic Support: $1,342.30

With this donation, we purchase malaria testing and treatment, as well as some fever reducers. This is also the clinic where Sister Shirahata often goes when she's sick.

 

That's all. We never run out of things to express our gratitude to each year. We are once again eternally grateful to the supporters and families of the Association for Walking Together for their generous and tireless efforts in supporting our missionary work in Sierra Leone, where Sister Bernadette Shirahata has served for over 50 years, and each of us, the Sisters of the Missionary Clares, work together with passion and dedication to continue this work for the poorest and most vulnerable, especially children. Thank you, Association for Walking Together, for making all of this possible. May God always bless each and every one of you.

 

 

TO EACH AND EVERY MEMTER OF

THE WALKING TOGETHER ASSOCIATION

July 22,2025

BY SISTER KAZUKO SHIRAHATA

 

Hello. It seems like it's hot in Japan again this year. It's the rainy season here, so it's been raining every day. The temperature is probably around 33 degrees.

 

The other day, while I was visiting a sick child, a heavy rain hit and I couldn't return to the monastery. I stayed at another child's home, where they collected the rain from the roof in empty cans and pots placed on the dirt floor.

 

On May 1st, before the resurrection of Christ, I asked the children to refrain from eating cookies (1 Leone each) and candy (2 leones each) for 40 days and give them to poorer children. The father took the money collected to the Bishop of Makeni, who then sent it to Rome.

 

On June 1st, I was invited to lunch at St. Joseph's Monastery in Lunsar. It was a pleasure to be able to enjoy a meal that I don't usually get to have. After about an hour and a half, the abbot said, "It is very meaningful that the monks and nuns from the two monasteries in Lunsar can gather together to talk and unite like this." After the meal, the women returned to the monastery early, but the men stayed behind to talk.

 

June 16th is "African Children's Day." On this day, rice with meat and water were given to all teachers and students at all schools, from kindergarten to Maria Ines Vocational Training School. This was all thanks to the teachers at Tamagawa Gakuen's elementary and middle school divisions in Japan.  Every year, both students and teachers look forward to this day.

 

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At the kindergarten, a proposal was made at a parent-teacher meeting to "select a King and Queen for Tamagawa Shirayuri Kindergarten from among the children." First, about 10 children were selected, and on "African Children's Day," parents pooled their money to crown the most popular children as King and Queen, giving them a special reward. The parents here love these kinds of events and it's a very exciting time.

 

I decided to give away the dolls I made every day next Christmas instead of today. All the children were given toys.

 

July 5th was the kindergarten graduation ceremony. 128 students graduated. The graduates expressed their gratitude to the kindergarten principal and parents. There was folk and gospel dance, as well as singing and drama. The instruments used were the melodica, handbells, and xylophone. Each child invited five people, so the venue was full, and the small instruments were hard to hear, but it was a very enjoyable graduation ceremony.

 

Summer vacation has now begun. During that time, people from Mexico and Peru came to help out. We taught math at the junior high school and painted pictures on the walls of the kindergarten. Everyone learned the Japanese word "konnichiwa" (hello). We said "konnichiwa" every morning, lunch, and dinner.

 

On July 19th, we were invited to the home of a graduate from Freetown. We enjoyed a delicious meal and played a long game.

 

We'd like to express our sincere gratitude to everyone at the Walking Together Association for their support throughout this school year. Because the price of rice has increased fivefold, most people can't afford to eat rice every day. Therefore, the children who receive rice at school every day are overjoyed. They line up every day and eat with gusto. We owe this to God and everyone's efforts.

 

We are currently starting to build a hall in the elementary school's garden. This is aid from America. It is just a roof, with no surrounding walls. God always helps us somehow, and we are truly grateful.

 

We pray for the health of those currently suffering from illness. We pray for God's special blessings upon you and your families. We look forward to your continued support next year. Sister Shirahata.

 

(2nd Letter from Sr. Shirahata)

On August 20th, Professor Ochiai and his wife, Tomoko, arrived safely at 6:15 am. We were preparing a meal for 15 Italians just before morning mass. It wasn't raining, so we heard the sound of the car horn. It had been five or six years since I last saw his wife. I was surprised at how young she still was.

 

After breakfast, we went together to the health center in the town of Lunsar. Along the way, we met many alumni. Some of them I wouldn't recognize unless they told me their names, but hearing their names brought back fond memories.

 

The most senior member of the health center was out, so we met with a midwife. She's been working as a midwife for three years and as a nurse for six, but the other 20 or so staff members aren't receiving salaries from the government, so the health center is struggling to even afford medicine. They can't even afford gasoline to drive their vehicles to transport patients they can't treat to nearby clinics. They face many other challenges, but the government isn't doing anything about them. Prof. Ochiai said he'd like to visit the Maria Ines Vocational Center tomorrow to talk about single mothers.

 

Through Prof. Ochiai, I received a wall stapler for Sister Josephine, a pencil sharpener that can be easily sharpened by hand for the kindergarten, and a lot of Japanese food from the Polboron Association at Azabu Church. This is all thanks to the efforts of so many people, so I'm very grateful to everyone. My family also provided bandages, wound medicine, and other items, which will be very useful.

 

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On August 21st, Prof. Ochiai and his wife went to the Maria Ines Vocational Center to meet with a poor single mother. Afterward, they returned to the health center to meet with another nurse. Despite being a nurse, she hadn't yet been paid. She graduated from OLG elementary, middle, and high school, and then obtained her nursing license. She still needs a lot of patience.

 

In the afternoon, Mrs. Tomoko Ochiai interviewed me for 50 minutes about my life here. I truly believe that I have been able to be here for 50 years thanks to the prayers and hard work of my family and everyone here. Please continue to pray for me.

 

Tomorrow, I will cook curry rice with  teacher Tomoko.  I will also cook some Oyako-don (rice bowl with chicken) and Sushi.

Until next time, Sister Kazuko Shirahata.

 

 

 

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PARTICIPATING IN TICAD 9

The Tokyo International Conference on African Development

Meeting with VIPs from the Republic of Sierra Leone

 

Participants: Katsujiro Kanno, Yoko Kanno, Marta Tanaka, Ayako Yamamoto,

 And Kuniko Nomoto

 

On Friday, August 22nd, we participated in the Sierra Leone Economic, Trade, and Investment Forum (held at the Westin Hotel Yokohama) as part of TICAD 9. After the forum, we met with Sierra Leone dignitaries and presented them with a brief English introduction to the "Walking Together Association" and issues 47-48 of the newsletter (including English and Spanish translations). This valuable opportunity was made possible by the generous support of Mr. Jonathan Goodrich and Mrs. Rumi Goodrich, who provide us the container transport services, in order to introduce the activities of the "Walking Together Association" to Sierra Leone dignitaries visiting Yokohama for TICAD.

 

We sat in the back and listened to the forum, which began at 1:30pm. Sierra Leone's government officials used slides to explain how Sierra Leone is rich in minerals and rare metals, how they are starting pineapple plantations, how they are focusing on fishing, how they are expanding roads, how they are focusing on tourism, and, most importantly, how they have a large young population.

 

There were many people at the venue who appeared to be from China, and I found it a bit odd that the date on the front screen was displayed in Chinese. The Sierra Leone moderator and speakers repeatedly mentioned JAICA and JETRO, but the number of Chinese people in the venue made me feel (this is just my personal impression) that Japan is lagging far behind China in terms of investment and development in Sierra Leone.

 

There were many people at the venue who appeared to be from China, and I felt a bit uneasy when the text on the front screen said "Monday, August 22nd" instead of "Friday, August 22nd." The Sierra Leone moderator and speakers repeatedly mentioned JAICA and JETRO, but the number of Chinese people in the venue made me feel (this is just my personal impression) that Japan is lagging far behind China in terms of investment and development in Sierra Leone.

 

After the forum, Mr. and Mrs. Goodrich guided us to Sierra Leone's Ambassador to China (resident in Chaina and concurrently serving in Japan), Dr. Abu Bakarr Karim, and we presented him with the materials we had brought with us. We then had a chance to chat with Mr. Sandy, Executive Director of the Office of the Vice President of the National Investment Board Secretariat of the Government of Sierra Leone. We explained our main activity, providing school meals to children, and he responded, "That's a great idea. If there's school lunch, they'll come to school and study, but if there's no school lunch, they won't go to school." We also presented him with our newsletters, and introduced him to Ms. Yamamoto, the English translator, and Ms. Marta Tanaka, the Spanish translator. Mr. Sandy gave us all his business card, and Mrs. Rumi Goodrich took a group photo. It was a wonderful and fulfilling experience for us all.

 

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Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to express my deepest gratitude to Jonathan Goodrich and his wife, Rumi, for providing us with this valuable opportunity to meet with government officials from the Republic of Sierra Leone and introduce the activities of Walking Together Association. Thank you very much.

By Kuniko Nomoto

 

VOICES FROM OUR SUPPORTERS

 

💙 May Sister Shirahata's aches and pains be healed.  May the children and school of Lunsar receive what they need. May the Lord's help and blessings be bestowed upon the work of the "Walking Together Association.  K.S.

 

💙The people in Sierra Leone are working hard to become nurses, doctors, and pharmacists. How wonderful! I pray that their dreams may come true. T.O.

 

💙The 80th anniversary of the Nagasaki atomic bombing has arrived. For the first time in 80 years, two bells will ring at Urakami Church. These are the Peace Bells. May world peace and the smiles of children be protected. May the Assumption of the Virgin Mary be remembered. Let us pray together. Eat well, laugh, pray, and become peace-loving people. M.T.

 

💙 Thank you for the newsletter. I'm so glad that Sister Esmeralda is recovering. Even though each donation is small, I'm grateful to God for the smiles on the children's faces and for the connections we have with our supporters through His hand. K.K.

 

💙 Thank you for sending us the newsletter. Your thoughts are conveyed in each article and letter. It gives me energy. I pray for your continued health and success. M.S.

 

💙 Thank you for the newsletter. Just reading your articles, "Everyone's Papa," has always remained unpretentious and makes me smile. K.K.

 

💙Thank you for sending me the newsletter. It's a very informative newsletter. I will continue to support Sierra Leone. Thank you. N.T.

 

💙 Every time I receive the newsletter, I am reminded of how grateful I am to have food to eat every day and to be able to actively participate in activities. I hope to continue providing support as long as possible so that the smiles of the children of Sierra Leone can be protected. N.M.

 

💙 I was deeply moved by the successive young people in Sierra Leone. I was also touched by the letter, which conveyed Sister Shirahata's unchanging warm personality. The long-standing wishes of our Japanese supporters and the efforts of the people of Sierra Leone have come together, and I feel as though we are now in a time of grace. (The rest is omitted.)

 

Obituary

◆ We have received word from the family that Ms. Yasuko Kameyama (school mate of Sister Shirahata), who supported us for many years, has passed away. We pray that the Lord's comfort be abundantly upon her family.

◆Mr. Kuniaki Sato, a member of the Headquarters Accounting Audit Committee, passed away suddenly on August 31st. Mr. Sato continued to make one "basket pinwheel" every day to help raise donations for school lunch support. We pray that the Lord's comfort be abundantly upon her family.

 

GENERAL MEETING

 

On September 13th, the 2026 (September 2025 - August 2026) "Walking Together" General Meeting was held. All of the articles  (such as the financial report, budget proposal, and "Looking Back on Fiscal Year 2025") were approved at the General Meeting. Details will be reported in Newsletter Issue 50. We are grateful for your generous support over the past year. (By Katsujiro Kanno)

 

Pictures:

P1: Congratulation on your graduation!

P2: Sister Josephine Kamara, Regional superior

P3: School children

P3: Sister Esmeralda and Sister Shirahata

P5: Melodica lesson by Sister Shirahata

P6; Group photo at TICAD9

P8: Children in traditional costumes at the school festival

 

 

(Translation by A. Yamamoto)