A Minibus for a Seminary in Equatorial Guinea

Equatorial Guinea is a former Spanish colony on the west coast of central Africa. It is a relatively small country, with an area of only slightly more than 10,000 miles and a population of just 1.4 million people. It has immense oil reserves and is therefore by no means one of the poorest countries in Africa. However, the only ones who profit from this wealth are a small elite, while the vast majority of the people still live in deep poverty and additionally suffer from rampant inflation.  

One good thing is that there are many vocations to the priesthood, though for the young men who feel called, it offers neither comfort nor wealth. On the contrary, most of the priests have to endure the most basic living conditions, with no electricity or running water. And many also have to teach in the schools, simply to support themselves. Similarly, most parishes don’t even have a vehicle at their disposal, so the priests have to endure long and difficult journeys on foot through the jungle, in order to minister to the people in the outlying areas. 

In 1994, an interdiocesan seminary was set up in the coastal city of Bata, the country‘s former capital and still its largest city, where the seminarians from all five dioceses of the country, from religious congregations, and even from some neighboring countries, come for their studies in philosophy and theology, as they prepare for ordination to the priesthood. The number of vocations is increasing year by year, and at present, there are 90 seminarians here.  

The rector of the seminary, Father Sebastian Mba Nguema Mokuy, had previously asked us for help, since they urgently needed a minibus for the seminary. At weekends, the seminarians have to travel into various parishes, as part of their training and in order to gain practical pastoral experience. And their formation also includes various extracurricular activities, such as excursions and attending Church events and gatherings. Finally, a vehicle is also needed for weekly shopping expeditions, to purchase food and other essentials for the seminary, and for bringing the sick to the hospital.  

Thanks to the support of our benefactors, we were able to provide $28,643 for the purchase of a suitable minibus. The rector has written to thank us: “Your help has brought very positive results for all of us, and also for future generations. This vehicle is the only one we have, and it is a source of great joy and gratitude for us.” 

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