The Assumptionist Center in Brighton was the site of a brief break from studies and papers when members of the community, residents and guests came together to carve pumpkins on Friday night. The 'experts' who had done it before assisted the 'first timers.' The evening was full of laughter, spooky music and the anticipation of roasted pumpkin seeds. Though this was a first time event at the center, by all accounts it seems to already been established a tradition!

Would you share a bit about your background: family, childhood, early education etc.?

My name is Pacifique Kambale Tsongo. I was born in Oicha, Democratic Republic of Congo, February 7^th 1990. My parents are Joseph Kambale (father) and Astrid Kyakimwa (mother). I have one younger sister, Louange Kahindo.

In my family, I learned to take care of my sister, to clean the house, do the dishes and look after the guinea pigs. On holidays we traveled to relax and visit other family members. I also learned to pray and participate with some Catholic groups: for example, Mass servers and aspirants in religious life. When I started school, my mother was courageous in teaching me how to read children’s books. I was good at reading, but I didn’t like the exercise because I preferred to play with friends.

I spent my first seventeen years with my family. During that period, I received my early education in our village called Mabuku. After primary school, I studied pedagogy in secondary school. Then I left my family to work as a teacher. I taught in a primary school called Mudoole. Even though I didn’t earn enough money and the distance was so far, I really enjoyed the experience.

I’m sincerely grateful to my family, especially to my mother Astrid, who worked so hard for us. Her daily efforts were – and still are – for me an incarnation of love, heroism and sanctity.