After careful discernment and in fidelity to the ad gentes charism, the Consolata Missionaries deemed it wise to open a new mission in Ethiopia. The Apostolic Vicariate of Hossana became the ideal location. This marked the first presence of the Consolata Missionaries in this Vicariate in their 113 years of existence in Ethiopia (since 1913).
By Edgar Nyangiya Makori *
Shone Mission became the point of entry and was established as a quasi-parish. The official inauguration took place on 25th May under the patronage of Mary, Covenant of Mercy (Kidane Miheret), during a Eucharistic celebration presided over by Monsignor Seyoum Fransua, Bishop of the Apostolic Vicariate of Hossana. Fr. Timothy Wanjala was appointed as the priest in charge of the quasi-mission.
The mission, which has five outstations and a total population of 2,561 Christians, as well as a kindergarten, was elevated to a fully-fledged parish on 22nd February 2026.
Celebrations at Kidane Miheret Mission – Shone began on Saturday, 21st February 2026, when five couples received the Sacrament of Matrimony. Later that evening, a vigil was held, concluding the novena to Our Lady Consolata, followed by Eucharistic adoration and a reflection on Mary presented by Fr. Tamrat of the Hossana Vicariate.
The extensive preparations – including painting, repairs, and the erection of tents – clearly showed how eagerly the Christians of Shone awaited the proclamation of their parish by the Bishop. The excitement was evident on every face, from the youngest to the oldest.
On the day of the parish promulgation, the Bishop welcomed Christians from the various outstations, neighboring parishes, and local political leaders who were present. Before delivering his homily, which focused on the humility of Mary and especially her “yes” as a model for all believers, Monsignor Seyoum Fransua read the decree officially declaring Shone a parish. Fr. Timothy was confirmed as the parish priest.
With this elevation, the parish’s patronage changed from Mary, Covenant of Mercy (Kidane Miheret), to Our Lady of Consolata (Asnanywa Mariam). Recently, the Consolata Sisters also opened a new mission in Gimbichu, a parish within the Apostolic Vicariate of Hossana.
During the inauguration Mass, ninety-nine Christians received the Sacrament of Confirmation. Through the gift of the Holy Spirit, they were strengthened to bear witness to their faith. The Eucharistic celebration was concelebrated by Consolata priests and several priests from the Apostolic Vicariate of Hossana. The Consolata Sisters and the Franciscan Sisters of Mary were also in attendance.
Many faithful from neighboring parishes and outstations brought gifts to support the new parish — including cows, sheep, and monetary contributions — as a sign of solidarity and commitment to its self-reliance.
As is customary, the celebration concluded with a shared meal. We wish the newly established Parish of Our Lady Consolata God’s abundant blessings and every success as it continues Mary’s mission of consolation in this part of Ethiopia.
* Father Edgar Nyangiya Makori, IMC, missionary in Ethiopia.
