As Uzima Centre enters a time of leadership transition, Maryknoll lay missioner Joanne Miya reflects on positive change—from expanded apprenticeships and nonviolence education to new spiritual accompaniment at the Lake House of Prayer—while trusting the next generation to carry the work forward.
From bustling basketball courts to quiet daily rhythm at Lake House of Prayer, Stephen and Loyce Veryser’s ministry in Tanzania bridges the physical and the spiritual. This fall, as they celebrate new beginnings—a completed basketball court, a renewed retreat center—they remind us that faith, like sport, flourishes through community, perseverance, and grace.
At Uzima Centre in Tanzania, missioner Joanne Miya reflects on the meaning of community in light of Maryknoll Lay Missioners’ 50th anniversary. For her, it includes not only those she serves today but also the beloved friends, missioners, and family members who have passed on—her “communion of saints.” Through their lives and enduring presence and intercession, she is reminded that every story becomes part of a larger mosaic of faith, resilience, and love.
Uzima Centre in Tanzania is embracing exciting changes with new leadership and office space. As the Learn & Earn program empowers more young people with practical skills and hope for the future, the center continues to transform lives—thanks to the generosity of its supporters.
From providing essential school supplies to supporting life-saving medical care, Uzima Centre is making a difference in the lives of vulnerable individuals in Tanzania. Children are getting the education they deserve, families are learning the power of saving, and those living with HIV are receiving critical care. From missioner Joanne Miya, here’s how your support is changing lives.
Through innovative projects and unwavering support, Tanzania’s Uzima Centre uplifts the vulnerable, fostering hope and dignity for HIV+ clients of all ages. Missioner Joanne Miya reflects on the successful services provided this year.
When we consider our divided society, the wars happening around the world, and the everyday challenges that accompany life, it can be difficult to feel hopeful sometimes.
In addition to teaching deaf students extra math classes in Tanzanian sign language at Bwiru Boys Technical School in Mwanza, missioner Stephen Veryser helps coach basketball at the school and fund improvements of the court.
When Debbie Northern joined Maryknoll Lay Missioners in 1999 for a three-and-a-half-year commitment, she never imagined it would turn into a 24-year experience.
Mike Lattanzi in Tanzania reflects on exclusion and belonging.
The Uzima Centre improves the lives of HIV+ Tanzanians of all ages and religions. Missioner Joanne Miya reports on its latest efforts.
