A day of spirit and surrender, where faith met fire and history found its echo in four humble hearts. Something sacred stirred in Our Lady of Pentecost Parish of Loyola Heights, Quezon City (Philippines) on the morning of October 25.

The community gathered in the Church rejoiced as 4 members of the Missionary Community of St. Paul the Apostle (MCSPA) – Timothy Kaburu, Zackayo Sakwa, Cosmus Onyango and Micheal Mwangi – were conferred the order of diaconate by the Archbishop Emeritus of Jaro, Most Rev. Jose Romeo O. Lazo DD.

It has been about 2 decades since the MCSPA had seen 4 men being ordained together, and the occasion felt more like a revival of spirit. From the first chords of the entrance hymn, the parish came alive. Members of the MCSPA and family and friends leaned forward with pride, the young looked on in quiet admiration. When the 4 stepped forth, dressed in white, something about the moment said promise. Their faces were steady, but their hearts … you could feel it, were burning! At that moment, it was clear: vocation is not about prestige, but surrender.

Archbishop Lazo, in his gentle yet firm voice, opened his homily by saying that this ordination of MCSPA members reminds us that the Church is missionary. The diaconate is born of love in order to serve. These words came across not as lofty rhetoric, rather as a lived truth. Service – the Archbishop reminded the deacons-to-be and everyone in the beautiful Church – begins not at the altar but in the heart: in listening, lifting up and loving the people whom God places in our path.

Most Rev. Marvyn Abrea Maceda, Bishop of San Jose de Antique Diocese also concelebrated at the ordination mass together with the Parish Priest, Fr. Herbie Santos, and a number of priests from MCSPA and guest priests as well.

The whole liturgy and mass was solemn and beautifully celebrated.

After the final blessing, the celebration continued in the parish hall. Laughter replaced the solemn chants, and old friends clasped hands as if to say, we were part of something holy today. Photographs were taken, stories shared, food passed around … nothing extravagant, just the warmth of communion, the taste of shared joy.

This ordination was more than an event: it was a reminder that God still writes His story in human hearts. In our 4 brothers, the church glimpsed her own renewal: a spark of hope in a world that so often forgets the beauty of service. Testimonies during the reception also lightened the day. It became apparent how despite the humble beginnings, immense efforts were made by the priests and seminarians of the MCSPA in its different apostolates and outreach in the poorer neighborhoods of the parish and in building bridges between the Philippine and African churches. It was heartwarming to learn of God’s grace acting throughout the 13 years of the MCSPA’s presence in the Philippines.

As the event came to a close, the words of St. Teresa of Kolkata came to mind: “At the end of life, we will not be judged by how many diplomas we have received, how much money we have made, or how many great things we have done, but by how much love we put into the doing”.

To Timothy, Zackayo, Cosmus and Micheal: congratulations! May you savour the joy of service!

by Benjamin Musyoka,
Junior Apprentice of the MCSPA

Meskel is one of Ethiopia’s most important religious and cultural festivals; it is celebrated every year on September 27 or on September 28 in a leap year. It commemorates the Finding of True Cross on which Jesus died by Saint Helena.

A large bonfire (called Demera) is lit using dry wood and this is done in public places. At the village of Dakuna where the MCSPA has its mission, it was done at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church. All the faithful gathered in the evening of the day, and the bonfire was lit. Abba Filipos officiated at the ceremony with the help of church deacons who led the chanting and prayers, and the incensing. Three elders performed the traditional blessing, before lighting the Demera. Abba Filipos explained to the faithful gathered at the Church the meaning of the Cross.

Members of the MCSPA communities at every mission in Ethiopia also gathered with families that invited them to share in the traditional Ethiopian meal and drinks.

Meskel also marks the end of the rainy season in Ethiopia. There is a tradition that interprets the position of where the bonfire leans or collapses to predict future events for the community. We hope and pray that this year 2018 of the Ethiopian Calendar will be full of blessings to all the MCSPA missions in Ethiopia.

by Lydiah Obok, MCSPA

Dakuna Mission, ETHIOPIA

The Women’s Empowerment Project at Dakuna Mission in the Eparchy of Emdeber (Ethiopia) was born as a result of a discernment based on walking with and listening to the needs of women in the area. One of the greatest needs identified is that of empowering women who are the heart of families at Dakuna.

Today, 80 women are registered; they are organized into 4 work groups who meet weekly to learn practical skills. Their training includes making of handcraft (such as baskets, sugar pots and table mats), beadwork (producing beautiful bracelets, bangles, key holders and pen holders) and food preparation (such as njera, coffee etc).

Despite having to walk long distances, the women faithfully attend meetings, finding joy in working together, often singing and dancing as they learn. Their products are then sold in local markets, bringing sustainable income that helps improve their families’ lives.

But the MCSPA’s St. Scholastica Mission at Dakuna goes beyond training: we provide pastoral accompaniment, supporting the women spiritually and building community around faith. We foster solidarity, where women learn not only skills but also encourage, support and uplift one another. We work hand in hand with local leaders to ensure that development efforts are rooted in the local culture, dignity and sustainability.

A special moment came this past August 27 when we celebrated the Feast of St. Monica, patron of one of the work groups. The day was marked with gratitude, joy and renewed hope showing that this project is not only about economic growth but also about nurturing faith and unity.

We thank our partners, World Doctors of Italy, represented by Dr. Gabi Janssen and Monika, whose generosity and commitment have made this initiative possible.

The presence of MCSPA in Dakuna is a sign of hope: by empowering women, we are planting seeds of transformation for families, the community and the Church. Together, we walk the path of faith and development, hand in hand with the people of Dakuna.

Josephine Amuma, MCSPA

Dakuna, Eparchy of Emdeber (Ethiopia)

Theme: “Hope Does Not Disappoint”

From 18 to 21 August, the 3rd Youth Encounter of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Deanery was held at the outstation of St. John the Evangelist (Lobur Mission) in Sts. Joachim and Anne Parish, Kibish. The event was guided by the inspiring theme, “Hope Does Not Disappoint”.

6 parishes of the Deanery were invited to attend, but due to heavy rains, only four were able to make the journey. We were also delighted to welcome St. Joseph the Worker Parish from the Lake Deanery as a special guest.

Over the four days, young people came together in faith, fellowship and joy. We prayed the Rosary, celebrated the Holy Eucharist and shared meals as one community. The event featured a variety of sports including volleyball, basketball, football, and track events (100m, 200m, and 400m) for both girls and boys. The evenings were filled with music, dance and other lively entertainment, creating a joyful and memorable atmosphere.

A heartfelt “Thank you!” to all the parishes who participated to help make this encounter a true celebration of hope and unity.

Fr. Andrew Yakulula, MCSPA

Lobur Mission (Kenya)

When I recall our journey to Nyangatom, I don’t only remember the long distances covered but I remember the faces, laughter, prayers and the Spirit that accompanied us there. Leaving Muketuri, our hometown in the green highlands of Ethiopia, whose people are mainly-orthodox and work in agriculture and small businesses, we set out on a road-trip of more than 1,100 km, trusting that this was an opportunity for God to work in our hearts. The aim was to visit the MCSPA mission in Nyangatom, which lies in the far southwest, near the border with Kenya, and whose population is mainly pastoralist, a people proud of its cultural heritage.

When we arrived at Nyangatom, we were met by the youth from Kokuselei Mission, another MCSPA mission in the semi-desert area of Turkana County, Kenya. At first, we were strangers to each other from — Ethiopian, Turkana and Nyangatom — but it didn’t take long before a volleyball net, a few games and open conversations turned us into one family. Working side by side — painting, planting trees, clearing bushes, cleaning — we learned that service has no borders.

We had cultural nights which proved to be a window into each other’s worlds. The Kenyan team shared the richness of the Turkana tradition — their dresses, dances, stories and even the slaughtering of a goat in the traditional way. For many of us from Muketuri, it was a surprise and quite a shock, but it was also a moment to understand how food, tradition, and community are deeply connected in the Turkana culture. The next night was Ethiopia night — we cooked traditional dishes, dressed in our cultural clothes, danced and taught our friends the rhythms of our homeland. At those moments, we were not only displaying culture, rather we were sharing ourselves.

One of the most powerful moments was climbing the mission hill to place a cross for peace at the top. Standing there, praying in many languages for peace, hope and reconciliation, I felt the truth of our calling — that we are one Body, sent to bring light where it is most needed. That night, praying and singing with the community, I knew that this trip would leave a mark on all of us.

On the way back, the Brothers of St. John welcomed us at Addis Ababa. Their kindness, together with the Spiritan Missionaries who had received us earlier, reminded me that the missionary spirit is alive and strong in many hearts.

All this was made possible thanks to the dedication, effort and enthusiasm of three MCSPA missions: Kokuselei, Muketuri and Nyangatom. Working together for this encounter of our youth has been a sign of unity and a living prayer for peace in Ethiopia, Kenya and South Sudan.

Tigist Mekonnen

MCSPA Apprentice,

I am a third-year commerce student at Strathmore University and a volunteer with the Community Service Centre. Recently, I joined a women’s promotion camp in Nariokotome Mission, collaborating with Strathmore Turkana Education Project and the Missionary Community of St. Paul the Apostle (MCSPA).

Along the western shore of Lake Turkana, lies a humble but powerful movement that strings one bead at a time. My journey to Nariokotome introduced me to a group of extraordinary women whose resilience, creativity and spirit continues to inspire me long after my departure from Turkana.

These women are part of a beadwork project that empowers them to earn a sustainable income in a community where the odds are often stacked against them. They have neither had the opportunity to go to school nor a stable source of livelihood. Here the land is vast and bare, while access to the necessities like water and food is difficult. Rather than give up, these women have chosen to stand up.

Most of these women walk long distances each day to participate in the program. Some make a 3-hour journey on foot, driven not by obligation but by dedication. Despite the physical challenges, their positivity, work ethic and humility stand out. They sing as they work: their melodies weaving through the air with the same grace and rhythm as the beads through thread.

I had the joy of interacting with them closely, wearing their colourful shangas, dancing, laughing and joining them in song as they worked. Though we were separated by language, we were united in purpose and joy. The “raiya” women, i.e. those women who have never been to school, still call out with excitement to Teacher Jenny whenever they face a challenge, knowing that guidance and support are always available. Their eagerness to learn is unmatched.

Most of these women are fast learners, now creating up to three pieces a day. Over time, they have not only refined their skill but also gained the confidence to recognize the value of their craft.

This project, led by Lydia and Lenny and supported by Strathmore and it’s partners, is more than just beadwork. It is a lifeline, a source of identity and pride. The project leaders constantly remind the women that this is their office, and that they should approach it with the same pride and professionalism as at any workplace. The women take this to heart, cherishing the fact that they, too, have a job, a purpose and a place of belonging.

With the breathtaking view of Lake Turkana as backdrop, there truly was no better way that I could have spent my semester break. I got the impression that this is not just a community initiative; it is a transformational project weaving resilience and sisterhood among the women.

My experience there has been a testimony to the lengths that Turkana women will go to for a better life. I have witnessed the power of patience, hard work and belief. There is a beauty that blossoms when women are given the tools, not handouts; but skills to shape their own futures and I am grateful to have been a little part of it.

By Stacy Nyamwange,

BCom 3rd Year, Strathmore University, Nairobi

On July 26th, Nariokotome Mission joyfully joined the universal Church in celebrating the memorial of Sts. Joachim and Anne, parents of the Blessed Virgin Mary and grandparents of Jesus. This special day holds particular meaning for us, as we came together with our Sts. Joachim and Anne Elderly Programme members to honor not only the holy grandparents of our Lord, but also the invaluable role of grandparents and elders in our own community.

The day began with a solemn Mass presided over by Fr. Zaccheaus Okoth, during which a special intention was offered for all elderly members of our parish. Fr. Zaccheaus reminded us of the deep faith and perseverance of Sts. Joachim and Anne, encouraging everyone especially our elders to continue being pillars of wisdom, prayer and love in their families and society.

After Mass, the 275 elders in the programme were offered a warm reception at St. Martin de Porres Bakery at Nariokotome Mission. Songs and traditional dances, marked the celebration, creating a lively and joy filled atmosphere.

A highlight of the celebration was the presentation of small gifts to each elderly member present. These included food items and simple necessities, offered in gratitude for their contributions to the Church and community.

We concluded the day with a shared meal, filled with laughter, friendship and gratitude. It was a beautiful reminder of the importance of honoring our elders not just on special feast days but every day!

The celebration strengthened our bonds as a Christian family and renewed our commitment to walk in the footsteps of Sts. Joachim and Anne with faith, humility and love.

By Lenny Jillo, MCSPA

Nariokotome Mission

“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)