SISTER MAUREEN, OUR ASSOCIATE AND DIRECTOR OF THE YCTC CENTRE, PASSES AWAY (14 December 2020)

“May the angels lead you into paradise, may the martyrs greet you at your arrival, and lead you into the holy City of Jerusalem.”

It is with deep sadness that we inform you of the passing of Sister Maureen, director of the YCTC Centre in Livingstone, Zambia. It was an honour to know her, be her friend and work with her. This is what I wrote about her only a few months ago:

All of society’s major developments and transitions were generated by individuals, not the majority. Individuals all throughout the world are doing good things and sending powerful messages to everyone else. Most of us entrust others with the task of making the world a better and more humane place.

It is difficult to describe Sister Maureen. You have to experience her spirit, passion, friendliness, enthusiasm, and inspiration. She embodies genuine ideals that make this world a better place. She believes she has the capacity to change the world, and she does so every day by putting others first. Sister Maureen is the director of the YCTC Centre  (https://www.schoolandcollegelistings.com/…/Youth…), which houses 300 poor Zambians who are educated there. She is the “capable wife” mentioned in the Holy Bible: “A capable wife who can find?… Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she laughs at the time to come.” (Proverbs 31:10-12, 25)

At the Centre, young people are trained to become IT technicians, mechanics, caterers, bricklayers, tailors, carpenters, electricians, etc. If they weren’t at the Centre, these young people would be lost on the streets of Livingstone. Sister Maureen is able to provide them with everything they need for a good education, including compensation for their teachers, thanks to the generosity of people all over the world. It takes a lot of effort and energy, especially now, during the Covid crisis. Last year was incredibly challenging due to hunger – it didn’t rain for 11 months.

Heart for Zambia Foundation has collaborated with Sister Maureen and the YCTC Centre since day one. They built the furniture for our students’ residence “Croatian Heart for Zambia”, which was opened in Livingstone in February. Today, I placed an order for 50 beds and other furniture for our students’ residence in Nawinda. By purchasing their products, we are also helping the Centre continue with its work.

Dear Sister, thank you for everything and rest in peace! REQUIESCAT IN PACE!