And a woman shall lead them...
Without Maména, we would not be developing the earth sack project in La Vibora. It´s that simple. In fact, among all the Haitian Dominican women in the countryside, she stands out for her striking abilities as a leader.
A new image of women:
As the men lift the heavy sacks, Maména is right there, doing a job that women usually hide from. She has seven children and can lift a 100 pound sack of dirt. When her husband goes off to work on a small farm in Maniél, she and her boys go to work on her plot of land that she weeds, digs up and plants with yautía. Maména speaks the best Spanish on the mountain and effortlessly translates into Creole. During a Sunday homily she will quickly capture the main idea and present it in Creole.
Her biggest gift:
But Maména´s principal gift is spirit. She radiates with a bright, can-do attitude that encourages other members of her community. People naturally tend to follow her example... especially the Haitian men -- who treat her with hard won respect.
The year of Saint Paul:
Soon the Church will celebrate a year devoted to Saint Paul. We will remember his extraordinary contribution to Christianity and marvel at the stamina he showed in pursuing the goal of establishing Christian communities throughout the Mediterranean basin. When I contemplate Maména animating her community and throwing herself into the hard work... she reminds me of Saint Paul and the quality of leadership that he offered each town and city along his path. May the Lord of new beginnings continue to bless the world with people who inspire others to serve!
