From Oxford to Bosnia

Rob, a Companion from Emmaus Oxford reports on his visit to an Emmaus Community in Bosnia. This was a part of Emmaus' commitment to enabling Companions to visit other Emmaus Communities.

"I travelled with a Companion called Chris from the Bristol Community and we stayed in Doboj, in a house for woman who had been trafficked from all over the former Yugoslavia. I sat with them and listened to their stories. It was the most mentally and physically challenging day I have ever experienced.

We also went to Duje, where Emmaus has a Community for mentally and physically disabled people, many suffering from the effects of war. The Companions built the camps themselves and are also totally self sufficient - they even grow mushrooms, taking advantage of a damp, dark cellar.

Finally, we went to Srebrenica, where they are planning to run Emmaus work camps in the grounds. The highlight was walking up the mountains in the snow on tracks where people go to hunt bears. The views were amazing.

My visit showed me how much I have. When I got home, I couldn't even turn on my TV because it made me feel guilty. I would love to go back someday."

Published on 22nd April, 2010

"I really like working in the warehouse - people donate such wonderful things. I find it really creative and satisfying."