Spring 2026 newsletter

Susanne Beentjes, Tanzania

Although I have lived in Mwanza (Tanzania) for six years, these past two months as a Maryknoll Lay Missioner have marked a new beginning. Becoming part of this community has invited me to see my daily life and relationships through a more intentional missionary lens—one rooted in reflection, accompaniment, and faith. Maryknoll has gently shifted my perspective. I find myself asking not only what I am doing, but how I am being present. Where is God already at work? How am I called to walk with others in humility and solidarity?

One of the highlights of these first months was a three-day immersion trip to Musoma with fellow Maryknoll lay missioners. It was a grace-filled experience that revealed the many ways mission is lived out in community.

Sr Maria Annunciata and Justin Veryser in a ‘heart’ conversation

We were warmly welcomed by the Immaculate Heart Sisters of Africa, whose hospitality and joyful spirit made us feel at home. I was deeply moved by their way of life and their total dedication to serving those most in need. We also had the great honor of visiting the home where the elderly sisters live together. Witnessing how they care for one another with such tenderness was profoundly touching. Receiving their blessings felt like a sacred moment and a true privilege.

We visited several ministries, including the St. Justin Center for Children with Disabilities, the seminary secondary school where lay missioner Mike Lattanzi serves, and St. Paul Pre- and Primary School, where lay missioner Susan Silveus ministers. It was great joy to meet with Mike and Susan, the staff and all community members at each site, and to witness their commitment to the people they accompany.

Touching scriptures at a classroom at Saint Justin Centre for children with disabilities

My eldest son, Jacob, and the children of Stephen Veryser—Justin, Abigale, and Claire—also joined us on the trip to Musoma. While they did not visit all the projects, it was wonderful to see them interacting with the sisters and the children. On Ash Wednesday, we all attended Mass together at a small local church and received the ash cross on our foreheads—a simple yet deeply meaningful moment that reminded us of God’s presence in community and tradition.

“Open your heart, so as to open your mind—and be willing to try things you never imagined doing.”

In one of my first conversations with Father Chacha (Chancellor of the Archdiocese of Mwanza), he introduced the above sentence to me. He explained that this is how we truly encounter a new culture. His words stayed with me. Even after six years in Tanzania, I realize that this invitation still applies. Mission calls me to remain open—to new perspectives, new relationships, and new ways of understanding.

Waiting for our ashes at Mass on Ash Wednesday

This spirit of openness is also shaping the discernment of my own ministry. With my background in Public Health Management, I have begun initial conversations with the Diocese about how I might contribute to their health facilities and health training colleges. My role is still emerging. Our next step is to visit the facilities, meet the staff and leadership, and listen carefully to their experiences and priorities. I am grateful for this process; trusting that any future contribution will grow out of collaboration and mutual understanding.

My activities for the Work & Shop Creative Center (www.workandshop.co.tz) continues and every day we take new steps toward our mission: creating a shared workplace where the talents of Mwanza can grow through craftsmanship and entrepreneurship. We are building more than a workshop — we are creating opportunities. A space where young makers can access tools and machinery that were once out of reach, where they can proudly sell what they create, and where they receive training that strengthens not only their business but also their confidence and life skills.

I ask for your prayers as this journey continues. Please pray that I may grow in wisdom and discernment as I explore this emerging health ministry, and that I may remain attentive to the voices of those I am called to serve. I also ask prayers for all those we encountered in Musoma—lay missioners, Sisters, children with disabilities, students, Priests and seminarians, and artisans.

Thank you!
Susanne

Lay group in Tanzania after dinner at Mike & Susan’s house (only missing Loyce Veryser)