We are very grateful for the AHAPPY Programme, which brought together 22 chaplains and catechists for the five-module training. The programme has been a great journey—from the self to the community. It helped us to recognise how the small world around me can have either a positive or negative impact on society.

The training helped us understand our inner environment and become more attentive to what is happening around us. It was a great experience sharing with one another, and I have the impression that the training has helped participants to position themselves better as we journey with those under our care.

This is a tool that will help us in all areas of pastoral ministry. We encounter both young and older people, and through this training, we are becoming better agents in our work. We can only give what we have. Having gained this knowledge, we are going to make a greater difference in the way we serve and in how we handle people—with greater dignity and understanding.

The training also reminded us of how society has branded people and called us to be attentive to those who have been overshadowed, particularly those who are vulnerable in society.

We have not always had many opportunities to improve our practical skills, and this training has therefore been very relevant in helping us to grow. From this training, there is going to be a greater impact from our spiritual workers within and across the Nyanza Region.

During one of our meetings, we sat together and agreed on exchange programmes among ourselves so that we can share this knowledge with inmates and with the communities around us. We would be very happy if we could help mould our young people in such a way that they do not end up in prison.

Our heartfelt gratitude goes to the AJAN office, the benefactors and all people of goodwill who have made this programme possible. We are grateful to the donors and to everyone who continues to support this mission.

We are invited to recognise that if people do not come to church, let the Church reach out to them. This is an inspiration that guided the Church, and the late Pope Francis often reminded shepherds to ‘smell the sheep’—to be close to the people and reach out to them. That is what AJAN is doing.

May God bless you abundantly.

We teach the mind so that we can touch the heart and transform the hearts of people. As AJAN celebrates its 25th anniversary, we are honoured to be part of your history, and we look forward to greater collaboration and commitment.

May people experience the presence of God through the activities that you undertake. We pray that more collaborators may come on board to support this programme.

VIVA AJAN!”

By, Fr. Dennis Kimweri,

Deputy Regional Chaplain,

Kenya Prison Service Nyanza Region.