The mission of Fr. Elpidio Sarita in Africa

The Philippine missionary, Fr. Elpidio Sarita, celebrates his seventh year of dedication and service in the Kamabai mission (Sierra Leone). Throughout his time in this African country, Fr. Elpidio has faced challenges inherent to any overseas mission, including linguistic and cultural barriers, which he has learned to overcome, as he himself has expressed, with dedication and faith.

Sierra Leone is known for its history and scenery, but it also faces many challenges, of which malaria is one of the most serious. This disease, transmitted by infected mosquitoes, is endemic in the country and affects thousands of people every year, especially children under five years of age and pregnant women. Despite national and international efforts to combat it, to this day it remains a persistent threat to public health, as explained by Fr. Elpidio: Malaria here in Sierra Leone is real and has been a challenging experience for me. I remember my first infection, it was a test of my physical and emotional endurance. But with each challenge overcome, I have become stronger and more committed to my mission.

This dedication and resilience demonstrated by Fr. Elpidio, is also reflected in his message to the religious: I hope that young religious, especially boys like me, can overcome their preconceived ideas about the risks and dangers of doing mission here in Africa. Fear of the unknown should not stop us. Here I have learned more about humanity, compassion and the true essence of service..

In this way, he encourages his confreres to embrace the opportunity to work in missions in Africa, and stresses the richness of the experience and the importance of keeping the missionary spirit alive: The opportunity to serve in Sierra Leone has been a gift. Every day is a lesson in humility and gratitude. The local community has taught me as much as I have taught them.

As an Augustinian Recollect, Fr. Elpidio Sarita has dedicated his life to serving and supporting the neediest communities, and his work in the African country is testimony to this: My wish is that more young religious will follow my example, face the challenges and dare to live their missionary vocation to the full in foreign lands. There is no greater satisfaction than knowing that we are making a real difference in the lives of those who need it most.