Herjok Panther Deng Agot
After a childhood in South Sudan marked by violence and unrest, senior Herjok Panther Deng Agot searched for peace and hope. When a Notre Dame alum returned to his community to launch a high school, Herjok gave everything he had to get into Notre Dame, too. Now, he’s living that dream out loud while actively giving back to the community that helped raise him.
“I was so thankful when this dream became a reality, and my time here has been filled with friendships, lessons, and many opportunities. One of the most significant experiences has been my participation in the Hesburgh-Yusko Scholars Program. This has allowed me to take part in summer immersions, and when choosing what I would do, I knew I wanted to return to my home and help make a difference.
“Especially in this season, Jesus is referred to as the Prince of Peace. He comes to us to bring all of us together, from lowly shepherds to wealthy magi. As a young boy, I longed for peace that was fleeting, and as a young man, I have been blessed to be a peacemaker through sport. This year, how can we bring the peace of the Christ child to our relationships, communities, and the world?”
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God bless you, guide you, and protect you, as you work to bring peace, Herjok.
You are a man of incredible faith and courage. I wish you much success.
Thank you for sharing your inspiring story of “paying it forward”. What an Advent gift!
Herok Your story lifted me up today. May you find peace tranquility and healing to all you encounter
You are an inspiration. So full
Of courage, vision, love and hope. Thank you for loving others as Christ asks us to. You’re extraordinary.
The fact that Herjok Panther was able to come from such humble beginnings to the greatest university in the country speaks volumes to the grace of God, this young man’s resilience and faith, and the heart of ND.
The visit of the ND alum enabled Herjok Panther to look beyond what was to what could be. We know there are no coincidences with God, who is always intentional. He may not have known it at the onset but part of the alum’s mission was Herjok Panther, for the ultimate goal of God using this young man to reach back to serve God in his community. How is God using you during this Advent season?
From a refugee camp to Notre Dame, wow! From ND back to the camp to bring peace via the game of basketball, wow! Thank you!
Thank you for sharing your beautiful story. You’re an inspiration to all who suffer longing for peace. Keep your light shining to bring them out of the darkness.
Awesome, Thank you for Sharing….Merry Christmas….Go IRISH!!!!
Years ago the wife of a ND professor shared a book with me about the orphaned boys of the Sudan. I was deeply touched by their struggles and perseverance and support of one another. Herjok, I admire you and what you have accomplished. I pray for your future success and for peace that is lasting. Chris said that we will struggle, but He will give us strength. Christ be with you!
What a beautiful and enlightening story Herjok. What a difference one person can make!
I will continue to pray for peace in South Sudan.
Merry Christmas!
Sincerely,
Trish
awesome implications from a most humble origen. i did meet several of the african nations scholars during reunion. so inspiring to know their journey among us. so talented and generous.
Wonderful, Herjok! Thanks.
Thank you for sharing your beautiful, heartfelt story. May peace be with you all the days of your life.
What a magnificent young man. His story is inspirational to me. Is there anyway we can help fund his efforts, especially in South Sudan?
https://www.education-bridge.org/support-us
This is the non-profit that his mentor started. I do not know if Herjok has his own organization, but funds contributed here will go to the school that helped educate him. I do not know Herjok, but I graduated with his mentor, who is an inspiration.
Her mom,
Your story gave me hope for peace in South Sudan, hopefully, a lasting peace !
My best friends volunteered in Ugunda in the mid 80’s , Hap, an engineer, maintained a hospital. His wife, Joey, a teacher, taught young girls in their village how to sew and speak English.
They loved the people there and they remained friends with the other volunteers from England and Ireland
all of their long lives.
Many of them visited our home and we loved hearing their stories at our evening meal
You are a “Domer” forever! Thank you and God bless your family and your organization,
Peace, Marilyn
We all have so much. I sent this out to all my children and grandchildren. It’s a perfect reminder to share our resources and our talents with others. That is where true happiness comes from! This is one of the best Advent Reflections you have posted!
You are a true gift as you spread joy, hope and peace. God bless you as you continue your journey.
Keep doing amazing things Panther! We are so proud of you.
God bless you!
May we all be instruments of His PEACE…
We’re praying for your strength and success, Herjok. Thank you for your inspiration! God bless us all!
Wow❗️Awesome Herjok. ND’72🍀
What a beautiful and inspiring story!
Thank you for sharing your inspiring story . Your story reminds me of the Serenity Prayer!
You are Gift to all who hear your story. May God’s grace continue to enable you to follow His will for all people. Blessings this Advent and always.
Thank you and may God continue to bless you.
So beautiful and moving, thankyou Herjok! I am inspired and encouraged by you to make a bigger effort to be a peacemaker today.
Blessed are the peacemakers! Thanks for sharing your story!
Blessed are the peacemakers! Thanks for sharing your story!
You are an incredible person. Thank you for sharing your story and showing us that political peace is a universal commodity. Thank you for you mission and I wish you the luck of the Irish in the future