Sisters Kura and Aquela SMSM are the newest members of the Marist team in London.
Sr Kurarenga (Kura) Tenaua writes:
"I am originally from the Oceanian island of Kiribati. It is a very poor country and relies on aid from larger nations such as Australia and the United States. Growing up on the islands, life was simple and our livelihood depended on the sea and land. Today we rely more on money and see education as vital for our future. Climate change is a serious threat to my country, but our people still believe in God’s plan.
My mission experience has been beyond anything I could have imagined. Before arriving at Notre Dame de France, I served in the Solomon Islands, teaching at the Pre-Seminary and Catechist Centre at Nazareth Apostolic Centre (2018–2024). There we formed young people in faith and prepared them to be effective Christian leaders in their communities.
I joined Notre Dame de France in March this year. Arriving in London was another culture shock, very different from my previous mission. I now help at the Refugee Centre and the Sandwich Service. On Mondays I serve at the drop-in centre, meeting people from countries such as Ivory Coast, Congo, Algeria and Iran. On Thursdays I assist in English classes for refugees, and on Saturdays I help prepare and distribute sandwiches to the homeless and marginalised. I also assist in church life and other activities at NDF.
In July I had the privilege of attending a French class in Paris, which was a wonderful experience, even if I did not master everything. Afterwards, I attended a retreat at La Neylière and was struck by the beauty and prayerful atmosphere of the place. I hope to return one day. God bless us all. Merci beaucoup."
Sr Aqela Likulagi Vere writes:
"I am Sr Aqela from Fiji, a Missionary Sister of the Society of Mary (SMSM) since 1987. I have served in Oceania, Africa and Europe, working in teaching, counselling and social work.
The plane landed at Heathrow on a cold morning, 27 November 2024, in the country that will be my home for the next three years. I now continue my mission at Notre Dame de France, London. On arrival, I received a warm, family-style welcome from our brother priests: Frs Hubert, Martin, Pascal and Christian. Although different from what I was used to, I quickly adapted to community life. I was the only SMSM here until March 2025.
I explored the many activities at Notre Dame and offered my help where needed: at the Refugee Centre, the Sandwich Service and in existing parish groups. At the chaplaincy I assist with catechism classes, which has also led me to visit other centres and meet catechists and students. I take part in chaplaincy activities such as retreats, workshops, “Frat” sessions and “Maristes en Education” events. I sincerely thank the community and chaplaincy team at Notre Dame de France for making all this possible."
