1 NOVEMBER 2011 PRECA, ART, ELDA, ELBASON AND ALL SAINTS.
Since Wednesday, I have been busy, catching up with computer work following meetings, attending an evening at Preca College, then an Art Exhibition, going out to tea and, not least, having an amazing research day yesterday!
At Preca, on Thursday afternoon, Rainer presented the outcome of a survey he had carried out in co-operation with statutory groups - the City Council and Education. This work was on "Teenage use of the Internet". Judging by the attendance - at 5.00p.m.,teachers consider it of importance. Of course it was in Albanian, presented in a very clear powerpoint. I was glad to see how interested all were in the findings and there was high praise for Rainer for completing the survey.
On Friday evening, I was invited to an Art Exhibition in the nearby Cultural Centre. This was special as the paintings had all been completed here in the City Park during a two week period in the Summer. I was glad to see it as I had missed seeing the actual work being done. About 30 well-known artists take part in this annual event. On Friday evening they were all on hand, with their paintings. I was introduced to a number of them, by Marieta, who knew them all! Their work was quite excellent.
Yesterday, Lalini and I went to Elbason. Our visit was arranged over the past few weeks and now, it related very much to a decision made with Sr. Daniela, to research ministry possibilities. The organisation we went to see has an amazing range of services. In addition the Director and staff were open, welcoming and very happy to have our support. They have a house similar to the one where Mirjam did a placement in Tirana, a Day Centre for Women, a Children's Home for damaged and abused children, an After Schools Club and a marvelous Youth Centre, complete with computer suite, cinema and even a recording studio that is very popular with the teenagers! I hope to work with the Case Manager of a very traumatized young person with whose case I am familiar through an advocate. Further involvement I will have to leave for some weeks until I can rearrange some commitments here. Lalini may make plans for some work much sooner. The work and ethos is very close to our charism.
This morning Mirjam and Amira left - they are going further afield for a few days and they too will look at ministry opportunities. We expect them to return on Friday, please God.
As I came down the road later in the morning, I met an Orthodox priest, wearing an elaborate stole and armed with Holy Water and palm. So, over he came, and gave me a special Blessing which was for All Saints/All Souls.
Looking back over the title, I realize I did not mention going out to tea!! Lalini and I were invited by the local pharmacist who is a friend of my 'student' Marieta. It was very enjoyable - Elda lived in Canada, with her husband for five years, but was too lonely for Korce and had to return!!
Enjoy the rest of All Saints Day and the week!
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