Armando's Scholarship

This morning Father Rey and I took off to go and inform Armando’s family of the scholarship the church is offering to the Agronomy High School next year. Armando and I have been friends for quite some time here; originally we met at the hospital when he was referred to the city for consult on his club feet. He is a kind, good hearted, 16 year old who needs an extra opportunity to progress here in this small village.

Each member of his family (mother, step father, sister, grandfather, and cousin) sat and quietly listened to the proposal.  This was done in the most formal manner; I had to start with how we met and became friends, and ended with my hopes for Armando’s future, and then had to open up the conversation to Father Rey of the scholarship they were offering. After a few quite minutes, we waited for a response.  Here families make decisions in groups for each other, meaning those older with debate on the well being of the younger.  The elder expressed their appreciation of the offer and the friendships that have been formed and approved of Armando’s scholarship.  Much to the Father and my delight Armando will be enrolled and boarding at the Agronomy school in January.

We thought our visit would be short, with an introduction, conversation, and agreements. But when the mother grabbed my hand to take me to the chicken she was going to kill for lunch, I realized that this was a customary Mozambican visit and we would have to accept the food. It is custom to offer food, whether there is extra or not, in this situation, the men and the guests ate chicken and rice, and the women and children ate greens and corn mass from the home-garden.

 It was the nicest Saturday morning and another great taste of my community, especially for Armando who has a hopeful future.  

Thanks, Father Rey.