Andy and Mary Clark, parishioners at Norwich St John’s Cathedral, have dedicated the past 18 years to working with development charities in Africa. Their journey began in 2006 when they left Norwich for Kakamega, Kenya, to serve as lay missionaries. They were later transferred to Makeni, Zambia, and Southern Malawi, where they have made significant contributions to the local communities. In the Sitima Parish in the Zomba Diocese, the Clarks oversaw the construction of a volunteer house funded by private donations, which has housed volunteers for various durations. N4BW, which Andy now chairs, has been actively involved in initiatives ranging from constructing school buildings to supporting vulnerable populations and enhancing local infrastructure.
The Clarks’ experience in Africa has been filled with joy and fulfillment as they have immersed themselves in a culture vastly different but full of life and celebration. They have witnessed the resilience and spirit of the African people despite the hardships they face every day. Celebrations, singing, dancing, and lively masses have been part of their journey, highlighting the vibrant and joyful nature of the local communities. Their work with N4BW is aligned with Pope John Paul II’s ideals of solidarity, emphasizing a commitment to the common good. Andy invites more volunteers to join in their mission of supporting the global family through volunteering, donations, or prayers.
N4BW’s mission extends beyond education into community assistance, including distributing essentials post-Cyclone Freddy, supporting vulnerable populations, and enhancing local infrastructure with various programs. Efforts also include creating subject-specific resource boxes for schools, promoting kitchen gardens, refurbishing school buildings, building houses for elderly women affected by severe weather conditions, and organizing craft workshops and sports leagues to enrich community life. The organization seeks to bring joy, aid, and education to those in need and provide volunteers with the opportunity to answer God’s call.
For individuals inspired by the Clarks’ story and the prospect of helping communities thrive, N4BW offers a life-changing opportunity to participate in meaningful projects in Africa. By supporting the organization through volunteering, donations, or prayers, individuals in the UK can play a crucial role in building the Church around the world. As Andy encourages more volunteers to join their mission, he emphasizes the impact that individuals can make by participating in activities that support global communities. Those interested in getting involved can visit the N4BW website or contact the organization directly to learn more about how they can contribute to this important cause.
