The Heart of Nuba is remarkable, to me, for Carlson’s ability to show how a Catholic layman lives his faith in a world of conflict with almost no humanitarian aid and is able to support his team’s efforts to help the sick, wounded and dying. Catena sleeps on a mattress on the floor of a small room stacked with unpacked boxes. He starts each day with Mass, the breviary and rosary before he heads to the hospital. By the end of the day he has seen 300-400 patients and performed numerous surgeries. He trains local people to help him but he is the one on call 24/7.
Catena’s respect for the dignity of the Nuba people is profound, his love deep and his commitment lasting.