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The event held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on May 29 in honor of Africa Day was a special tribute to one of Lithuania’s most prominent missionaries – Father Hermanas Jonas Šulcas. He was awarded the "For Merits to Lithuania of Lithuanians Worldwide" honor, given for his outstanding contribution to promoting Lithuania’s name globally and fostering humanistic values.
Father H. J. Šulcas, having lived and worked in Rwanda for over four decades, founded a youth center and a school. He dedicated his life to education, child care, and community building.
“Lithuania is proud of people who quietly but determinedly promote our country’s name – not through loud statements, but through sincere work and a desire to help others,” said Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Gabija Grigaitė-Daugirdė, greeting the event participants.
According to the Deputy Minister, Africa Day is not only an opportunity to remember important historical events but also a call to change the perception of Africa: “For a long time, Africa was mostly seen through the prism of challenges – poverty, disease, conflicts – but this does not reflect the true diversity and potential of the continent. We must learn to see Africa as an equal partner, full of ideas, strength, and cultural richness.”
During the event, the documentary film “God Returns to Rwanda at Night” was shown, telling the story of Father H. J. Šulcas’s life, his daily mission, and his significant contribution to the local community. After the screening, a discussion took place with the priest and the film creators – director Vilma Balčiūnienė and producer Lauras Lučiūnas. The conversation was moderated by Juozas Ruzgys, head of Bernardinai.lt.
The event became a sensitive and inspiring testimony to how one person – through faith, compassion, and consistent work – can fundamentally change the life of a community. It was also a reminder that intercultural connection and cooperation are an inseparable part of modern Lithuanian identity.