The Consolata Missionaries of the Kenya-Uganda Region gathered on the 12th of August 2024, at Allamano House in Nairobi to celebrate the final vows of five young missionaries who have been pursuing their religious studies in Kenya.
By Adolphe Mulengezi *
This event marked their full membership in the Consolata Family, an important milestone in their spiritual journey. These dedicated young men hail from diverse countries, including the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Ethiopia, Mozambique, and Kenya, reflecting the truly international character of the Consolata Missionaries.
Allamano House, the formation house that has nurtured these men in their vocation, was filled with joy and pride as they made their final vows, committing themselves wholly to the mission of evangelization and service. The significance of this event was further highlighted by the presence of 20 more young missionaries who renewed their vows, reaffirming their dedication to the missionary life as their confreres made their final commitment.
The Holy Mass, which was the central part of the celebration, was presided over by Father Evans Mchama, Regional Counselor of the Kenya-Uganda Region. In his homily, Father Mchama spoke passionately about the mission of Christ and the privilege of being part of the Consolata Family. “Christ is allowing us to share in His mission,” he said, “that’s why it is good to belong to this beautiful family of ours. Dear brothers, let us be proud of this life we have chosen. Let us add value to this family and be proud of it, so that by being a blessing to this family, we may be able to evangelize the people of God.”
He further encouraged the newly professed missionaries to live out the dream of the Founder, who will be canonized on the 20th of October 2024 in Rome. “You have been planted in this family, and we expect that each and every one of us will continue to flourish, giving good flowers that emit a sweet fragrance and attract many people,” concluded Father Mchama.
The five young men who made their final vows will be ordained as deacons on the 23rd of August 2024 at the Resurrection Garden in Nairobi. This ordination will be another significant step in their journey, empowering them to serve the people of God with renewed zeal and dedication.
The celebration at Allamano House was a profound reminder of the beauty and richness of the missionary vocation. It showcased the unity and diversity of the Consolata Family, a community rooted in the love of Christ and committed to spreading the Gospel to all corners of the world. As these young missionaries embark on the next phase of their spiritual journey, the entire Consolata community rejoices in their commitment and looks forward to the great contributions they will make to the Church and the world.
* Brother Adolphe Mulengezi, IMC, is Congolese student in Communication in Rome, Italy.
