In the heart of Africa, among the Bayaka Pygmies, Father Davide, a member of the Italian SMA Province, tells us about his daily life, full of joys and challenges. And every day he discovers that the mission is God’s work.
“When I was preparing to go to Africa, I was warned of the difficulties I would encounter… Not only due to the problems of adaptation: climate, food, or other minor issues, but also due to the culture shock that can lead to serious misunderstandings and disappointments,” said Father Davide Camorani, ordained a priest of the Society of African Missions in July 2021 and began his ministry at the Monasao mission in the Diocese of Berberati in Central Africa on September 21 of the same year (see Fides, 17/10/2021).
Since then, Father Davide, who, together with his confrere Michele Farina, has lived in the heart of Africa, among the Bayaka Pygmies. And every day he understands that the mission is the work of God.
“Bishop de Brésillac, our founder,” the missionary continues, “said in one of his famous phrases that if one seeks praise or satisfaction, it is better to stay at home; those who seek these things are not made to go on missions. Sometimes, however, life can confront one with unexpected situations that one is tempted to perceive as too great, as beyond one’s capabilities. In these difficult moments, one might lose hope, give up, and say, ‘It’s not worth it!’ I, too, have experienced these thoughts… So where is hope? What is hope? Hope in what? Hope is God and his promises, from Adam to the present day. God is always there and he never abandons us: we only have to seek him!”
“Being guided by the Word of God is fundamental; for me, it was and is,” emphasizes Father Davide. “Reading the Bible and carefully meditating on it is the way to discover that God’s promises are eternally valid. This is hope: knowing that God will act, even when it is difficult to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Knowing that this mission is His, not mine, and that He is in charge!!! So I don’t pray for the cross to be taken from me, but I pray that the Lord Jesus will give me broad shoulders to carry it.”
This article was published by Agenzia Fides, (15/7/2025) and the SMA Italy website https://www.missioniafricane.it/p-davide-camorani-dal-centrafrica-la-speranza-e-dio/