An example of hope

By Miriam Wheeler
September/October 2009

Return to Table of Contents
Print Article

Fr. Russ with parishioners in Kwakwani.

I have carried these words with me into mission having first heard them during my formation months in Canada at Scarboro Missions. It was at community mass and Fr. Russ Sampson had reflected on Peter’s advice in his homily. These words have become like a mantra to me when the workload becomes excessive or my longing for the com-forts of home become a hindrance. But mostly, the words speak to me of Fr. Russ’s quite gentle ways, his dedication to mission, his reassuring support, and his encouragement.

Fr. Russ left Guyana to return to Canada in June 2009. At the farewell mass honouring Fr. Russ—the last of the 39 Scarboro priests who served in Guyana since 1953—Bishop Francis Alleyne, OSB, expressed his sadness at Fr. Russ’s departure but also stressed the accomplishments of the Scarboro missionary presence in Guyana. He spoke of the hospitality of the priests, of their promotion of local vocations, and of their unselfish dedication to their vocation and to the people of Guyana.

Lay missioners Miriam Wheeler (left) and Kate O’Donnell with Fr. Russ Sampson in Kwakwani, Guyana. Kate returned to Canada to work as one of the coordinators of Scarboro’s Lay Mission Office.

When speaking of Fr. Russ, Bishop Alleyne thanked him for his dedication and his willingness to cheerfully accept new challenges. He spoke of Fr. Russ’s work in the Parish Lay Assistance Program in the diocese.

For those lay missioners who remain in Guyana to continue in the name of Scarboro, we do so with hearts filled with hope. We have the wonderful example of the Scarboro priests who worked so lovingly to bring about the Kingdom of God here in Guyana. We are inspired by former lay missioners who have set an example of unselfish dedication to their ministry. But mostly we have the firsthand remembrance of a man, a selfless priest who brought cheer, love, and an awareness of Jesus to us all. God bless you Russ. You are sorely missed here in Guyana.

Return to Table of Contents
Print Article