Catholic Missionary Priest in Niger Recognizes Apostolate with Blind as “a privilege”

Despite lacking expertise in establishing causes of low vision and blindness among the children, there is a strong desire to find a solution for the affected children, he says, adding that the goal the goal of the apostolate is to reignite the hope and joy of the children through friendship.

In the Agenzia Fides report, the Italian-born SMA Priest who has ministered among the people of God at Dosso Parish since 2021 says that the children get rejuvenated even with the slightest demonstration of friendship. 

“In the beginning, the visually impaired children told us their stories about how their parents often neglected them, didn't pay attention to them, considered them a curse, kept them isolated with the prospect that one day they would become beggars, while society seemed indifferent,” Fr. Casamayor says.

At the Parish, some of the challenges the children were facing have been addressed, he adds. For instance, he says, “We have provided them with transport and organized a school canteen where they can go after lessons.”

Basic medical and ophthalmological care has also been provided, the SMA member says, and adds, “We offer them the education that is essential for them to be able to look after themselves: from mobility and orientation to learning and improving braille to the use of computers and iPhones, music and various manual activities.”

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As a result, children who were previously withdrawn and feeling hopeless have transformed after a few months of participating in the Parish program, Fr. Casamayor says, adding that they have not only gained independence but also hope to move forward with life and feel useful in society despite their situation of living with low vision or blindness. 

“For us, it is a source of joy and pride to see these children every morning with the happiness they convey and the determination with which they learn and get better every time,” Fr. Casamayor is quoted as saying in the November 21 Agenzia Fides report.

Silas Mwale Isenjia is a Kenyan journalist with a great zeal and interest for Catholic Church related communication. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Linguistics, Media and Communication from Moi University in Kenya. Silas has vast experience in the Media production industry. He currently works as a Journalist for ACI Africa.