Staff of SCA gathered at the Spiritual Renewal Centre to reflect on prayer, faith, and organizational core values
Safe-Child Advocacy began the 2026 work year with a staff retreat at the Spiritual Renewal Centre located at Santasi inside Christian Village, moderated by Rev. Fr. Andrew Setsoafia, SJ. This annual retreat is more than a tradition—it is a vital moment of renewal where staff step back from daily responsibilities to reflect deeply on prayer, faith, and the organization’s core values.
Gathering in a spirit of unity, the retreat provided an opportunity to strengthen personal spirituality, foster team cohesion, and recommit to the mission of serving children in vulnerable situations. By grounding the year in gratitude, reflection, and shared values, staff were reminded that their work is not only professional service but also a calling to transform lives. The retreat set the tone for 2026 work year, ensuring that compassion, justice, respect, and collaboration remain at the heart of Safe-Child Advocacy’s efforts.
Prayer and Faith Formation
Under the guidance of Rev. Fr. Andrew Setsoafia, SJ, and with the leadership of Sr. Olivia Umoh, DC, Director of Safe-Child Advocacy, staff were encouraged to embrace prayer rooted in gratitude rather than complaint or constant requests. We were reminded that “God resides in His praise”—and by thanking Him for His blessings, we trust that He will continue to provide for our needs.
Sr. Olivia emphasized the importance of grounding our mission in faith and thanksgiving, noting that a spirit of gratitude strengthens both personal resilience and organizational service. As part of this spiritual renewal, staff also deepened their understanding of the Catholic faith and engaged with a documentary showcasing Catholic humanitarian services worldwide, inspiring us to connect our daily work with the broader mission of the Church in serving humanity.
Reflection on Core Values
Guided by Rev. Fr. Andrew Setsoafia, SJ, and reinforced by the leadership of Sr. Olivia Umoh, DC, the retreat placed strong emphasis on Safe-Child Advocacy’s seven core values. Staff were encouraged to integrate these principles into their daily service, ensuring that every action reflects the mission of transforming the lives of vulnerable children:
- Compassion – Serving children in vulnerable situations with love and empathy.
- Justice – Ensuring fairness and equality for all.
- Commitment – Delivering dedicated and quality service.
- Respect – Upholding the dignity of people and the environment.
- Collaboration – Partnering with stakeholders for equitable service.
- Integrity – Promoting transparency and accountability in our work.
- Creativity – Innovating and being resourceful to inspire positive change.
Sr. Olivia reminded staff that these values are not abstract ideals but practical commitments that shape Safe-Child Advocacy’s impact. By living out compassion, justice, and integrity, the organization continues to stand as a beacon of hope for children in street and other vulnerable situations.
Personal Growth and Team Reflection
Throughout the retreat, staff were reminded to remain steadfast in their mission, knowing that their work has the power to transform children into dignified adults—“We can make a difference.”
- In a silent breakout session, staff shared personal life lessons, reflecting on how challenges, when faced diligently, can lead to transformation.
- A reflective walk along the Stations of the Cross invited participants to connect Safe-Child Advocacy’s core values with the organization’s mission to serve children.
- In group discussions, forgiveness was highlighted as a foundation for workplace collaboration, reinforced by the wisdom that “Life is 10% how you make it and 90% how you take it.”
- Staff were also encouraged to practice kindness, recognizing that we may never fully know the struggles others are experiencing, and that empathy strengthens both relationships and service.
This segment of the retreat underscored the importance of resilience, compassion, and collaboration—not only as organizational values but as personal commitments that shape the way Safe-Child Advocacy staff engage with one another and with the children they serve.
Conclusion
The retreat came to a graceful close with the Opening Mass for the 2026 work year, celebrated by Rev. Fr. Andrew Setsoafia, SJ, whose presence and guidance enriched the entire experience. Following the Mass, staff gathered for a communal lunch, strengthening bonds of fellowship and unity.
As resumption activities continue, the spirit of renewal will carry into a staff outing and New Year’s celebration, featuring games, social activities, and an awards ceremony to honor outstanding staff from the 2025 work year. This joyful conclusion not only marked the beginning of a new chapter for Safe-Child Advocacy but also reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to service, collaboration, and the transformation of children’s lives.
