MISSIONER NEWSLETTER – Winter 2025

Joanne Miya, Tanzania

From left: Joanne Miya settling into her new rhythm of prayer and service at the Lake House of Prayer; Laurencia, still smiling after more than 20 years of living with HIV and supported by Uzima Centre; and girls participating in a nonviolence course, part of ongoing efforts to form tomorrow’s leaders in peace and justice.

Greetings from Uzima Centre,

As the year comes to a close, there is so much to be thankful for. Every challenge has brought opportunities for growth. Our Learn & Earn Apprenticeship program has expanded and now includes two additional neighborhoods and 20 more apprentices. Following Maryknoll Lay Missioners’ call to promote nonviolence, all of our support groups for HIV-positive and vulnerable children are now receiving monthly training in nonviolence.

The post-election violence we witnessed in late October was a shock to all of us. Tanzania has always been seen as a pocket of peace in Africa, and that illusion was shattered. We are not sure what the future holds, but the unrest was a reminder that peace must be built on justice. Please pray that leaders and citizens can come together to find a way forward. The young people we work with are tomorrow’s leaders. If we can instill in them the importance of resolving conflict through nonviolent methods, there is hope.

As some of you may know, I have been the director of Uzima Centre for the past 20 years. I love this ministry because I have seen the change it has made in the lives of the people we serve. Our program services have evolved over the years, adapting to the ever-changing face of HIV in Africa. As Uzima Centre has grown, so too has the responsibility of running it. At age 67, I am finding it harder to keep up with government regulations, grant requirements, and just about everything digital.

It is time to pass the baton to the next generation of innovative and competent leaders. Abdon Daudi, who has served as assistant director since March, will assume the role of director in January 2026. This is truly an answer to my prayers. So where does that leave me? I will continue to provide financial oversight, especially regarding funds raised through MKLM, and I have been asked to remain available as a “consultant,” which I am happy to do. It all feels right. Since my new role will no longer require a full-time presence, I have begun exploring other ministries.

I recently started helping at the Lake House of Prayer retreat center. Founded by a Maryknoll priest, this diocesan facility serves people from around Tanzania. The Lake House of Prayer is a place of silence, solitude, and simplicity. Members of the local community gather every morning at 6:45 for song, prayer, scripture readings, and shared reflections, and it has been wonderful to join them. I assist the director, who is also a lay missioner, and while my role is still evolving, I have been busy writing reflections on the daily readings for their WhatsApp group, helping with retreat content, and planting a flower garden.

Each day before lunch, we gather in the small chapel for meditation—something God knows does not come easily for me. Even so, I can see that this ministry will offer opportunities for spiritual growth and help me establish a more balanced and healthy routine. I am beyond grateful.

At this phase of my life, I can look back and see that there is indeed “a time for every purpose under heaven.” During my 40-plus years in Tanzania, I have served in a variety of ministries, and each has felt right for that particular season. I have always thrived on being stretched and challenged. I am sure the Lake House of Prayer will be no exception—though I am hoping for more gentle stretches this time.

I ask that you keep Uzima Centre in your prayers during this important transition. I promise to keep you updated on the various programs. Please also remember the Lake House of Prayer as we continue to seek ways to meet the spiritual needs of the people here.

As we prepare for the coming of the Prince of Peace at Christmas, may we each find peace amid the chaos of life. On behalf of Uzima Centre and Maryknoll Lay Missioners, thank you for all that you have enabled us to accomplish.

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him.”
(Romans 15:13)

Peace, deep breaths, and gratitude,
Joanne Miya
[email protected] or [email protected]

Please consider supporting my mission work at the Uzima Centre with a donation through the link below.

I invite you to walk with me as a “COMPANION IN MISSION.” Companions in Mission are friends and generous donors who give financial gifts on a regular (usually monthly) basis. For more information, visit Become a Companion in Mission. Thank you so much for your generosity!