I Didn't Come to Save Anyone
November 2025
By Antonin
I didn't plan to go to Lalibela. I didn't plan any of what happened there. I followed the flow — and the flow took me to one of the most sacred places on Earth, during one of its most sacred celebrations, at a time when the community needed connection more than ever.
People talk about the 'white savior' thing in Africa. I understand the concern. I share it. But I didn't come here to save anyone. I came to live with them.
"I slept in the church, prayed with them, shared food, laughed."
The first day at the church, I prayed to God and to Jesus. Asking for guidance to continue opening my heart. And this is exactly what I got.
For years I've been trying to follow Jesus wisdom — not as a structural religion but as a model of love I admire. In Lalibela, that following led me somewhere I never expected.
During the Meskel celebrations, I joined the all-night vigil. Thousands of worshippers wrapped in white, praying through the darkness. Children sleeping against their parents. Elders leaning on prayer sticks. I was among them — not watching, not photographing, just being.
"It wasn't about me giving and them receiving. It was an exchange. They gave me so much care, friendship, respect. I wasn't a savior. I was just another human being, humbled to be welcomed into their life for a moment."
People here follow Christianity as a celebration of life. Even with little money, they enjoy life so much because they're always together. In richer countries we lost that, we live more isolated, and I'm not sure the money really makes up for the lack of connection.
What touched me most was not just visiting the churches like a tourist, but really being part of the community. Supporting a little with school supplies, receiving so much connection in return. None of this was planned — it all happened in the flow, following Jesus wisdom.
"As a tourist I often feel guilty to come to these places and stay in my bubble, spending so much money for flights and hotels with very little going back to the people that need it the most."
It's not easy or always possible to get out of the path and connect with simplicity. Thanks to the wonderful spirit of people here, I could do this in Lalibela. And I hope my stories can inspire others to come here too.
It's sad to leave tomorrow, but I'm grateful I came without planning it during the celebrations — what a divine timing.
This project is my answer to the guilt — and my response to the connection. If Lalibela's story moves you, there are ways to help that go directly to the people who need it.
See How to Help