Adolphe Compaore, brother of the Chemin Neuf Community, sends us news from the Saint Laurent house in Burkina Faso.
‘When roots are deep, there is no need to fear the wind,’ says an African proverb.
On Saturday, 18 October 2025, joy and hope filled the Saint Laurent House of the Chemin Neuf Community in Burkina Faso.
During the Mass for the start of the academic year, celebrated with great fervour by Father Luciano COUTO with the students of the house and in the presence of some parents, we entrusted to God, the source of all wisdom, the academic year that is beginning for the 16 students, including:
– 11 Catholics
– 3 Protestants (Evangelicals)
– 2 Muslims.
This celebration had a special flavour: the house is celebrating its second anniversary of cohort.
Two years of growth, fraternity, prayer, commitment and human and spiritual formation. Two years of sowing… and already visible fruits.
‘Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world,’ said Nelson Mandela.
To all students, we wish you a blessed, studious and fruitful academic year.
May the Lord give you wisdom of heart, the courage to persevere, and the grace to put your talents at the service of others.
‘If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives to all generously and without reproach.’ James 1:5
‘Blessed is the man who finds wisdom, the man who gains understanding! For she is more profitable than silver, and yields better returns than gold.’ Proverbs 3:13-14
To the leaders of the house, thank you for your dedication. Your guidance is a precious seed in the field of Burkinabe youth. You are like the elders mentioned in our proverbs: ‘What an old man sees sitting down, a young man does not see even standing up.’
Let us all keep in mind that ‘a tree does not grow in a day, but it always starts with a seed.’
May this house continue to grow, rooted in prayer, unity, and brotherly love.
May this new year be full of light, commitment, and success for everyone.
Infinite thanks to Father Luciano COUTO who, during his homily, gave the following four pillars for a wonderful year:
– Commitment.
– Fraternity.
– Spirituality.
– Formation.
Happy new academic year to all!
Happy birthday to the Saint Laurent house!