Visiting African priest shares his impressions

St. Wenceslaus Parish in Iowa City recently sponsored the visit of Father Sakhile PM Ndwandwe, a priest from the southern African country of Eswatini. He said he became acquainted with Kim Nuxoll, a St. Wenceslaus parishioner who is a friend of nurses in the Diocese of Manzini, Eswatini, where he ministers.

Father Ndwandwe said he developed a friendship with Nuxoll and a desire to know more about the American culture, “thinking that in the future it might enrich both communities,” he told The Catholic Messenger. He said Nuxoll introduced the idea to Father John Lamansky, pastor of St. Wenceslaus, which led to Father Ndwandwe’s visit from Oct. 30-Nov. 29.

Father Ndwandwe shared his impressions of the visit with The Messenger:

My visit to St. Wenceslaus Parish offered a profound cultural and spiritual exchange, strengthening bonds of faith across continents.

First impressions matter

Welcomed at Chicago O’Hare International Air­port by Sophia, Joseph and Kim Nuxoll, my journey began with warmth and engaging conversation. A welcome dinner at the Nuxoll home and my introduction to the humble and prayerful Father Lamansky set the tone for a memorable stay.

Life at St. Wenceslaus Parish

The parish’s vibrant spiritual life was inspiring. Weekend Masses were well attended and weekday Eucharistic adoration saw significant participation. The long lines for confession reflected the parishioners’ deep reverence for the sacrament.

St. Wenceslaus also excelled in outreach. Parishioners recycled materials to support pro-life initiatives, hosted an annual parish bazaar to fund missionary work and actively engaged in social justice projects. These efforts demonstrated their commitment to living out their faith in action. (Father Ndwandwe also presided at Mass for the Iowa City Catholic Worker community.)

Hospitality and cultural engagement

St. Wenceslaus Parish exemplified hospitality. Parishioners provided meals for Father Lamansky and extended the same generosity to me. Whether through home-cooked meals or outings to local restaurants, I felt a sense of belonging. American traditions and values were shared during parish gatherings and Sunday coffee socials. Parishioners were eager to learn about Eswatini and my ministry, fostering cultural exchange.

Educational and welfare programs

Visits to Regina Catholic Education Center  and Faith Academy (both in Iowa City) highlighted the importance of education in nurturing discipline and faith. I taught a global studies class, engaging with students about life in Eswatini.

Johnson County’s welfare programs deeply impressed me:

• Shelter House: a state-of-the-art facility for the homeless, reflecting Christ’s teaching, “I was a stranger and you welcomed me.”
• Agape Free Breakfast: open to all without registration, fostering community and psychological well-being.
• Crisis Center Food Bank and Salvation Army dinners: ensuring no one in the county goes hungry.
• Housing initiatives: Programs such as GuideLink Center and Crisis Stabilization Unit supported vulnerable populations, including those with mental health challenges.

Justice and social impact

A visit to a correctional facility revealed humane treatment of inmates, including healthcare and work opportunities. Conversations with Judge Joan Black provided insights into Iowa’s justice system, which prioritizes fairness and opposes capital punishment.

Support for my ministry

St. Wenceslaus Parish supported my mission to mark my 20 years of priestly service. Parishioners purchased 20 copies of my book, the proceeds of which will fund the construction of a two-room house for the poorest of the poor in Eswatini. Additionally, I plan to donate to the Diocese of Manzini to support the education of seminarians. I must sell more books and gather additional support to achieve these goals. (The book’s title is “Fr. Sakhile Peter Ndwandwe: 20 Years of Priestly Service, Insightful Perception of Christ’s Faithful.” Contact St. Wenceslaus Parish for more information).

A lasting impression

My time at St. Wenceslaus Parish was a testament to the universal bond of faith. The parishioners’ devotion, charity and hospitality inspired me deeply. As I return to Eswatini, I carry lessons and renewed hope, determined to extend the same spirit of service to my own community.