What would you like to share about your background / history / motivation that brought you to mission in Africa?

Ours was an average Stearns County, MN. Catholic family of 8 children. We were 5 boys and it seemed only right that one should be a priest. I felt at my destiny to be the delegate of the family. From early on I was taught, and gradually believed that only Jesus was / had the answer to the meaning of life. Without him there were too many unanswerable. I came to believe this is what God wanted of me, to be a priest and a missionary.

In your own mind, what are some of the highlights of your missionary career in Africa, your successes, your adventures, your greatest joys?

To see others (Africans) come to the same conviction about Christ and find their life in Him. Two catechists carrying another very ill catechist to the hospital. Paying for his treatment, and caring for him- food, bed, shelter. The change in people as they gradually turn from the fears of unanswered questions and problems, to the joy and hope their faith brings. One man said "you Christians laugh differently," and Innumerable adventures and marvels.

What are some of the insights gained through your life / perspective as an American Catholic missioner in Africa that you'd like to share with the world?

There is more to life than making money. Every African believes in the basic "there is one God," and some how you must look there for answers and meaning. Life can be happy in the simplest life style. As a family, we're in this together. None standalone. Every person has his / her dignity. An unbelievable capacity for suffering and forgiveness.

Dan's Ministry             Dan's Biography

Maryknollers in Shinyanga, Tanzania