What Kassim Did Next
[ Kassim Conteh has finished his studies at Queen ’ s Foundation in Birmingham and obtained his MA in Theology .]
I arrived in Angrogna on 1 October 2022 , just after finishing and sending my Master ’ s dissertation to the Queens Foundation . I grew up in cities ( Freetown and Milan ), and even my last study experiences were in big metropolises such as Rome and Birmingham ( from which I have just returned ). I moved from a reality with a population of over a million to a small mountain town with a resident population of around 800 .
I felt welcomed by the community and church council of Angrogna , which made sure I found a welcoming home when I arrived . I was told right from the start that to be a true Angrognino , I had to learn how to light the wood stove and have a pocket knife . I must say that as far as the wood stove is concerned , I have learned quite well how to light it . For the pocket knife , however , I fear that since I am black , it becomes even more difficult to convince the authorities that the reason I am in possession of it is because I am trying to become an Angrognino [ obviously joking ]. Another step communicated to me these days is that I should eat ‘ bagna cauda ’ [ which literally means ‘ hot sauce ’], which is a typical Piedmontese dish made with all sorts of seasonal vegetables dipped in a sauce with olive oil , anchovies and garlic . Having to deal with food , I think I will overcome this step quite easily .
In these two months of experience I can say that in addition to attempting to be an Angrognino , I am slowly learning the role of a minister , thanks also to the accompaniment of Pastor Elisabeth Löh . I have already been involved in ( or with ) several acts of worship , participated in the choir , attended Sunday school , assisted and led catechism , made a few pastoral visits , and other activities related to the role . The community seems active and willing . And that makes me feel comfortable because I feel very supported by everyone and by the Lord . Of course , moving from Birmingham to Angrogna is quite a big transition , but knowing that I will not be alone in this is very
Kassim reads from the Bible during his first solo church service . encouraging . A special thanks to The
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