“This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it!” (Ps 118:24)

13th July 2025 marked a joyful milestone, 50 years since the foundation of the Missionary Community of St. Paul the Apostle and Mary, Mother of the Church (MCSPA). It was a day filled with thanksgiving, joy, and renewed commitment to the missionary journey.

It was 50 years ago that Fr. Francisco “Paco” Andreo took the first step to put into practice his vocation to become a Shepherd to others, especially promoting vocations to the priesthood among the youth.

What began in 1975 as a small seed of faith planted by Fr. Paco has grown into a flourishing missionary family, present today in Kenya, Ethiopia, South Sudan, Malawi, the Philippines, Mexico and Colombia. A journey that began with simple acts, walking with the poor, helping the vulnerable, and nurturing vocations has become a living witness of the Gospel in action.

The Anniversary Mass was celebrated at Church of St. Paul the Apostle at Nariokotome Mission, Turkana, presided over by Bishop Dominic Kimengich of Eldoret. It brought together priests, sisters, lay members, and guests from the diocese and around the world to celebrate God’s faithfulness through the years.

The President of the MCSPA, Scholastica Wamalwa, gave an address in which she thanked all the bishops in whose dioceses members of the MCSPA work. Scholastica also encouraged the younger generation of the MCSPA to forge ahead with faith and hope because “Hope Does not Despair”, echoing the theme of this Jubilee Year. A deeply touching moment was the sharing by Fr. Albert and Cecilia, among the first companions of Fr. Paco. They recalled the early days of hope and hardship, of trust and perseverance, and how God has been present at every step of the journey.

“He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion on the day of Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 1:6)

The celebration continued with joyful songs, dances, shared meals and moving testimonies, reminders of the many lives that have been touched and transformed over the years. It was a day not only to look back with gratitude but also to look forward with hope and vision.

As we mark this Anniversary, we thank God for the path that we have travelled, the people who have walked with us, and the mission that continues to unfold. Let us keep praying for the MCSPA family across the world that we may remain faithful, generous and joyful in our call.

May the soul of our founder, Fr. Paco, who gave himself entirely to God’s mission, rest in peace.

Louis Mkweza & Joel Jeremiah

Junior Apprentices of the MCSPA

As we prepare to mark a milestone in our community, our 50th Anniversary invites us to look back with gratitude and hope. It asks of us to pause and give thanks, and also invites us to begin again and renew our commitment by deepening our bonds and to welcome new life into the heart of the community: it is both MEMORY and PROMISE.

At the cusp of our anniversary, we have been blessed with a quiet but powerful sign of life: the incorporation of 3 men into our community. These are not strangers or sudden arrivals. They have walked among us, prayed with us, eaten at our table, and worked beside us. They have lived the apprenticeship in the MCSPA not just in name but also in heart.

The stages that a potential young man or woman has to undergo before becoming a member are: Come and See, then Junior Apprentice and then Senior Apprentice.

The solemn incorporation of these new members took place on the evening of July 11th at the Church of St. Paul the Apostle at Nariokotome Mission, the motherhouse of the MCSPA.

The occasion started with a holy mass presided over by Fr. Andrew Yakulula who asked Zackayo Sakwa, Cosmus Onyango and Micheal Mwangi to always be humble as the day’s Gospel taught (Mt 10:16) because it is humility that will make them better members of the community. The three incorporated members were given a cross each as a symbol of their new life in the community: simple, silent but deeply meaningful.

At the same mass, 9 new Junior Apprentices were given scarves as a sign of commitment to their vocation on the road to being missionaries in the MCSPA. The new Junior Apprentices that received the scarves are:
1. Dionisius Kandar
2. Joel Jeremiah Robert John
3. Owen Mafupa
4. Emmanuel Okello
5. Brian Stephen Waswa
6. Patrick Omondi Oduor
7. Bereket Luigi
8. Bright Mwasangwale
9. Maria Vidal

They are from Indonesia, Malawi, Kenya, Malaysia, Ethiopia and Spain. Their presence reminds us that formation is a life-long process and the Spirit keeps beckoning.

We thank God for these signs of hope. As Scripture says, “See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?” (Is 43:19). May this Anniversary find us ready to remember with joy, to welcome with love, and to walk forward together, as a family in Christ Jesus!

By Sokakulo Peter & Benjamin Maketa (Apprentices of the MCSPA)

Lobur, Turkana North – June 19, 2025

Today, Lobur Mission celebrated with excitement as 22 men and women graduated from the Furrows In the Desert (FID) program, ready to turn Turkana’s dry lands into green fields. In Turkana, where scorching heat and scarce rains make life difficult, most people rely on herding goats and cattle, a nomadic way of life woven into their rich culture of storytelling, dance and community. But with climate change drying up pastures, the need to grow food is becoming a lifeline, and FID is leading the way.

For 5 months, these graduates learned to farm in this harsh semi-arid land, from preparing soil to selling crops and even cooking what they grow. “This isn’t just farming—it’s about changing lives,” said Mr. Munene, FID’s Operations Manager. “These farmers ate their own vegetables, proof they can feed their families and neighbors.” A 2025 graduate beamed, saying, “The work is hard, but it fills my heart. We need help to keep going!” Rose, who graduated in 2023, added, “FID gave me a job. Now, I tell others: transform your villages with what you’ve learned.”

Maque, FID’s Director, shared how the program began in 2009 after a trip to Israel, growing with help from partners in Israel and the MCSPA. She urged everyone to work together, saying, “Our farmers shouldn’t feel alone. Markets like Kakuma are waiting for their crops.” She, however, registered her worries that some might quit farming for quick cash, especially in the fishing villages of Todonyang near Lake Turkana, and asked for support to keep them on track.

In Kaaleng, Sr. Joy said, “Our land is different now—green and alive—thanks to FID farmers.” Sr. Matilda from Kaikor agreed, “Our farms pay school fees and feed families. Kaikor is an oasis!” Fr. Andrew from Lobur Mission called FID a path to peace, saying, “Food is needed every day. Let’s help these farmers sell their crops so they don’t lose hope.” Mr. Benson Thuku, Area Program Manager from Dan Church Aid (DCA), praised FID for teaching skills that fit Turkana’s challenges. “With climate change, we must grow our own food. These young farmers, most around 30, are our future.”

Lobur Mission gave the trainees a home, and DCA plans to team up with FID in Kalobeyei. Maque thanked the staff for their hard work, saying, “Together, we’re showing Turkana what farming can do.” In a land where survival is a daily fight, these 22 graduates are planting hope, proving that even in the desert, life can bloom.

Cosmus Onyango

Senior Apprentice, from Lobur Mission

On 11 June, 17 scouts from St. Joseph’s Youth Group traveled from Muketuri to Addis Ababa for a day full of learning, encouragement and vision. The trip was made at the invitation of members of the Transformer Group, a team of young professionals from Addis.

Along the way, we paused for a tea and coffee break and reflected on what it means to be “salt and light” (cf. Matthew 5). We are called to bring flavour to life through hope, faith and compassion. In Addis, we visited the St. John Paul II Technical School. The main building is complete but finishing work is still ongoing. We participated in classes on solar energy, graphic design, music, cooking and languages. We also saw two beautiful halls: one medium and one large but both ideal for concerts and youth events. A chapel is also being built on the grounds.

Afterward, we were taken to the Cathedral Church for a short but meaningful tour. The cathedral is beautiful and peaceful. We then visited Adwa Bridge, with a panoramic view of Addis. Lunch followed at a Burger and Pizza House owned by one of the Transformer Group members. It was a great example of youth entrepreneurship and proof that with faith, hard work and supportive friendships, anything is possible. We wrapped up the day at a local coffee shop, where Transformer members gave us powerful encouragement so as to discover our vocation, to never give up, and to value faith-filled friendships.

Two scouts shared what touched them most. Yonatan, the youngest, wrote, “I saw something I’ve never seen before. I’m so happy. The way you work together with joy and purpose really inspired me. Thank you so much!” Ashenafi Fikru added, “Today changed how I see things. I realized life isn’t just about fun; it’s also about effort and faith. The Technical School gave me real hope. I saw how learning a skill can change your future. I’m so grateful for what we saw.”

Truly, it was a day filled with inspiration, new ideas and a deep reminder that being salt and light is both a calling and a gift.

By Tigist Mekonnen

Junior Apprentice,

Muketuri, ETHIOPIA

ELDORET Vocational Reflection Gathering for young ladies between 18-25 years old interested to know Missionary Life.

Join us on 14-15 June at the St. John the Baptist Pastoral Centre

Reflection, sharing and prayer!!

Register here in advance

Or write to us
vocation.promotion@mcspa.org

The grounds of Benga Mission came alive with vibrant performances, powerful messages and a joyful community spirit as more than 400 attendees gathered for the much anticipated Tiyamike Talent Show. This event, held on April 25, showcased the talents of 75 children divided into five groups, each representing a house.

Each house was challenged to creatively explore and present a specific theme through drama, song, dance, and poetry. The themes : Love, Environment, Poverty, Economics, and Gender were not only timely but also deeply resonant, offering the young participants an opportunity to engage with pressing social issues through performance.

“The children poured their hearts into their acts,” said one of the event organizers. “It was inspiring to see them express such complex topics with passion and creativity.”

The audience was treated to stirring performances ranging from a moving skit about environmental conservation to a thought provoking poem on gender equality. The children demonstrated not only their artistic abilities but also their understanding of the challenges their communities face.

The event culminated in a lively raffle draw, adding an extra layer of excitement. Prizes included an African wrapper, flour, sugar, soap, and honey, items that brought smiles to the lucky winners and underscored the spirit of sharing.

The Tiyamike Talent Show proved once again to be more than just a performance stage — it was a platform for education, empowerment, and unity. Organizers hope to continue holding the event in the coming years, reinforcing the belief that when children are given a voice, they can speak powerfully for change.

By Laurent Tsamba

Junior Apprentice MCSPA

Malawi

In a heartwarming display of environmental care, students from four different schools have dedicated a portion of their holiday break to cleaning up plastic waste at Nyangatom Mission in a united effort to protect the planet.

The initiative saw a significant amount of plastic waste collected and properly disposed of, making a visible difference in the mission grounds and surrounding areas. The students from Nyangatom, studying in Lobur, Kibish, Todonyang and Lodwar, independently organized the cleanup after connecting through a shared interest in environmental conservation. Recognizing the extensive issue of plastic pollution and its harmful impact on ecosystems, they chose Nyangatom Mission as their initial target.

The enthusiastic students worked tirelessly, collecting discarded plastic waste that had accumulated on the mission grounds. Their efforts raised awareness among the local community about the importance of proper waste management and the dangers of plastic pollution.

“We learned about the devastating effects of plastic on life and the land in our environmental science classes, and we felt we couldn’t just sit back during our holidays. Taking action, even in a small way, is crucial to saving our planet.” said the students. The students’ leader added, “It’s amazing to see what a group of determined young people can achieve. We hope our initiative inspires others, both students and adults, to take responsibility for their waste and participate in keeping our environment clean.”

Nyangatom Mission, run by MCSPA members, expressed their profound gratitude for the students’ initiative. “We are deeply moved by the dedication and hard work of these young environmental champions,” commented Fr. Angel Valdivia, the in-charge of the mission.

The students plan to continue their environmental efforts during their holidays and hope to establish a network of young environmental activists across Nyangatom. Their inspiring initiative also demonstrates the power of youth engagement in addressing critical environmental challenges.

Peter Sokakulo,

Junior Apprentice, MCSPA.

It was a joyful evening at the St. Joseph and St. Francis Xavier Theological Formation House in Metro Manila. Fr. Andrew Yakulala, with the permission from Bishop John Mbinda, Bishop of Lodwar Diocese, presided over the mass for the conferral of the Minor Orders of Lector and Acolyte on Timothy Kaburu, Zackayo Jumba, Cosmus Onyango and Micheal Mwangi.

The mass was cocelebrated by Fr. Alex Campon and Fr. Francis Teo, formator and rector of the Manila House respectively.

Let us pray that the 4 lectors and acolytes may persevere in their vocation and dedication to the service of the Lord through His people.

By Dionisius Kandar and Innocent Phiri.

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Ciudad Bolívar, one of Bogotá’s largest and most densely populated localities, faces considerable challenges in terms of social and educational development. Many of its residents live in vulnerable conditions, highlighting the urgent need for programs that offer children and young people opportunities for holistic growth.

In response to this need, the Missionary Community of St. Paul the Apostle (MCSPA) collaborates with the Centro Fuente, run by the Teresian Sisters, to support extracurricular learning and values-based education. Thanks to this partnership, we have been able to work together for the benefit of the children in the area.

This initiative specifically supports children and adolescents in vulnerable situations in the Santa Viviana neighborhood of Ciudad Bolívar. A vital space is being created where, through a combination of academic support and values education, the skills and talents of each child and young person are cultivated. At the same time, a strong foundation of ethical and moral principles is built from an early age.

A wide range of activities is offered, including painting, music, math, and reading and writing support. Educational outings are also organized, providing new experiences and, most importantly, exposing the children to environments they might never have imagined possible.

Recently, we held a rap competition in which participants used music and lyrics to express complex emotions such as sadness, anger, and frustration. Their songs also explored themes of self-improvement, identity, respect, and empathy. By creating and listening to these lyrics, the young people developed a more critical and conscious understanding of the world around them.

Another favorite activity is painting. Many of the children come from challenging backgrounds and lack safe spaces to express their feelings. Painting offers them a non-verbal way to release emotions like fear, anxiety, sadness, and anger. It becomes a form of emotional cleansing. Creating something of their own—and seeing others value their work—greatly boosts their self-esteem and communication skills. It also helps them explore their identity, their origins, and how they see the world around them.

Afternoons at the Fuente Centre are filled with joy and laughter. It is a safe, welcoming space where children feel free to express themselves, where every voice is heard, and where everyone matters.

Alexia Moreno, MCSPA

Bogotá, Colombia