Raising Money and Raising Hope.

Raising Money and Raising Hope.

Five years ago, Guor Michar, a much loved and hard-working pharmacist in Geraldton, set about to fulfil a promise he had made as a refugee when he left his childhood village in South Sudan. Guor promised to improve the lives of the people of Akot village and began planning to build a well, then a Health Clinic. In that time, with the help of Church groups and generous sponsors, Guor has managed to achieve both of these goals as well as building a school.

A recent fund-raiser at the Monsignor Hawes Heritage Centre brought together people from many different religious and cultural backgrounds to enjoy a Book Launch, afternoon tea, singing and dancing. Bishop Michael Morrissey and the Anglican Bishop of the Northwest Garry Nelson were present to give their blessing and support.

When Guor addressed the gathering, he expressed his deep thanks for all the generous donations. He said that raising money is raising the hopes of all the people in his village. The Health Clinic is treating people where they can stay close to their families and saves them having to travel many kilometres away from their home. The school initially opened under the trees while the buildings were being constructed. St Benedict’s have two teachers and a Chaplain and they are about to employ another teacher. This is the first school to be built in this part of South Sudan.

A book of Short Stories written by Guor’s friend Maria Flavel was launched with all funds donated from the books that were sold. You can read about the Akot project at http://athiolget.org.au/ or purchase a copy of Maria’s book called “From Here, To There and Everywhere” from the Monsignor Hawes Heritage Museum, located in the foreground of the Cathedral.