We have had the opportunity to visit the elderly people in our Elderly Care Programme in a different way, thanks to the interest and support of the children and young people who are part of the new support group for the elderly: Akiyok Ngimojong (Caring for the Elders Group). It was a very meaningful experience, which humbled us and which had a positive impact on the children who accompanied us.

For some of these children, it was their first time to visit some of these villages. You could see from their faces that they had realised something very important, and that spoke louder than words. They were able to see for themselves that there are people in our communities who need them and that, sometimes, a simple gesture of kindness, a meal or simply being there can mean a great deal.

During the visit, we shared home-cooked food and vegetables harvested from one of our shambas (vegetable plots). The elderly welcomed us with great warmth and their joy was evident. They blessed the young people, and this made the experience even more special.

We also took the opportunity to present them with the group’s T-shirt, marking the start of what we hope will become an ongoing journey of service, connection and contribution to the community.

It was more than just a visit. It was an opportunity for the young to learn, to connect with their roots, to look beyond themselves and to understand the importance of caring for and honouring our elderly.

We hope that our programme for the aged will continue to encourage more young people to care for elderly with love and respect.

Maggy Gitau

Apprentice of the MCSPA

Kokuselei Mission [Kenya]

Driven by a shared dream, the Muketuri St. Joseph’s Scouts Group took the initiative to fund their own journey by preparing and selling coffee and handmade bracelets. Through their hard work and determination over several weeks, they raised enough money to embark on an unforgettable adventure.

The goal was for the Muketuri youth to visit the MCSPA mission at Mizan Teferi and experience its various outreach initiatives. These include the Lion Program (for youth aged 12 to 18 years) and the Filippos Program, which supports street children.

The days were filled with icebreakers, friendly football matches, a moving visit to the Santa Clara project for women living with leprosy, and a scenic walk to the river. The trip was also a wonderful exchange of skills: the Scouts taught the Mizan youth how to craft handmade bracelets, while the youth from Mizan taught the Scouts how to play chess.

Coming from the highlands, the youth were blown away by the lush landscape – for many, it was their very first time to see coffee, mango, orange, avocado and guava trees. For many of them, it felt like walking through paradise!

Later on, we visited the massive Bebeka Coffee Plantation, a sprawling site covering nearly 10,000 hectares. It was also a special moment for many of the young people, who had the chance to see cacao trees for the first time.

As the trip drew to a close, the youth gathered to reflect and share their impressions.

The Scouts alongside some Mexican volunteers, did a play centered on seeking God and how His plan is always unfolding in our lives. It reminded us that even when we stumble in temptation along our journey, we can always turn back to Him because He is already waiting for us.

We are deeply grateful to everyone whose support made this journey possible. Without a doubt, these young people will go on to create positive change, and this experience will leave a lasting mark on their lives.

By Tigist Mekonnen

Senior Apprentice, MCSPA

Muketuri [Ethiopia]

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This trip came about thanks to our aunt, Sarai Zavala, who has been a missionary with the Missionary Community of St. Paul the Apostle for 23 years. She was the one who invited us to get to know Ethiopia up close, Its people and, above all, the mission to which she has dedicated her life. We traveled from Mexico, her sister Yadira, our great uncle Salvador (who was also lucky enough to celebrate his 91st birthday in Ethiopia), and us, Aranzazú and Samuel.

Until then, the mission was something we knew mainly through what our aunt told us when she came to Mexico. But being there was completely different. For the first time, we were able to see with our own eyes what her daily life is like and understand a little better why she decided to devote her life to others.

From the moment we arrived in Addis Ababa, we felt welcomed as if we were family. The missionaries we’ve known our whole lives—17 and 23 years, respectively—welcomed us with so much warmth.

Our first visit was to Dakuna mission in Endibir. There, the missionaries showed us around and explained the work they do with the community. Then we went to Muketurri, where we were able to get a little more involved and help, along with the volunteers who were there, with some of the activities for the children at the Mother and Child Center and at the nutricional units in the surrounding villages.

We finally arrived at Mizan Teferi. There, we met the children at the daycare center as well as children living on the streets, whom the missionaries are fully committed to helping build a better future.

The trip had a profound impact on us; our hearts witnessed something truly extraordinary: people who, with dedication and generosity, devote their lives to helping, inspiring, and supporting those who need it most. It has been an invaluable and moving experience, during which we were able to feel firsthand the love and passion that permeate each of the missions we visited: Endibir, Muketurri, and Mizan Teferi. Although each carries out a different mission, they all share the same purpose: to build a united community as brothers and sisters, children of God.

We were also impressed to discover that the missions are open to everyone, regardless of religion. They all seek to build communities capable of moving forward together, where each person can do their part.

Thanks to the constant effort, dedication, and commitment of everyone who is part of the mission, the fruits of their devotion are reaching farther and farther, touching more people and every heart they encounter along the way.

Having witnessed this work leaves an indelible mark on us and inspires us to be better human beings, reminding us that service, solidarity, and love for our neighbors have the power to transform lives and build a better world.

We have come to realize that what the missionaries achieve is making people feel grateful and heard when it comes to their needs, which builds a bridge to a faith in which people come together for the purpose of helping others. Because to help others, you don’t have to start with something huge, you can simply begin with the decision to look at the person in front of you, listen to them, and be willing to do something for them. And for us, that meant encountering a living God.

By Aranzazu Zavala and Samuel Sánchez

The joy and happiness on the faces of the members and apprentices of the Missionary Community of St. Paul the Apostle, as well as the people present, were evident. The entrance hymn, ”Chaka! Chaka! Lero kuli chaka,” meaning “Rejoice! Rejoice! Today is a big day,” sang of joy as the procession of the Mass began.

On this evening of July 30, the MCSPA expanded its footprint by opening its first Formation House for Philosophy, St. Augustine’s Philosophate, at Balaka, in Mangochi Diocese, Malawi. This milestone marks the continued growth of the MCSPA. The President of the MCSPA, Scholastica Wamalwa, along with other members, were present to witness this celebration.

The inauguration began in the late afternoon with Mass led by Rt. Rev. Montfort Sitima, Bishop of Mangochi Diocese. The Bishop blessed the church and the compound, and priests and seminarians from all six congregations enlivened the celebration by participating in the choir and the inauguration.

In his homily, Bishop Montfort drew an analogy from the potter’s house in the Book of Jeremiah, emphasising the importance of moulding lives with care and intention. This blessing marked more than a new building; it marked a place of genuine human formation.

We pray that everyone who enters this house will leave moulded and formed, stronger and ready to serve as missionaries in the charism of the MCSPA.

Scholastica Wamalwa thanked Bishop Montfort for welcoming the MCSPA in Balaka and the Society of Montfort Missionaries for welcoming our first seminarians. She also recognised the efforts of Frs. Manuel Hernandez and Fernando Aguirre in sourcing funding and building the buildings of St. Augustine’s Philosophate.

By Louis Mkweza, Benedict Maina & Laurent Tsamba

Apprentices of the MCSPA

Balaka [Malawi]

As the Universal Church celebrates the lives of Sts. Joachim and Anne, the beloved grandparents of Jesus and parents of the Virgin Mary, Kibish Parish burst into a double celebration woven with laughter, song and grace. The parish rejoiced not only in honoring its patron saints, but also in marking its 8th anniversary of existence, taking root in the desert.

The Christians were radiant. Clad in vibrant traditional Turkana attire, wazees, mamas, youth and children filled the church as early as 9:30 a.m., their voices rising in beautiful hymns that made the walls reverberate. The Holy Mass was presided over by Fr. Andrew Yakulula, MCSPA, accompanied by apprentices of the MCSPA and visitors from Spain and Kenya.

Indeed, the spirit of Joachim and Anne hovered over the day. Joy overflowed in every ululation and every step of the dance. To behold those smiling faces was the most sacred moment of all – a reminder that when we gather to pray and sing for God, peace overflows and the heavens open to shower blessings.

After being nourished by the Blessed Sacrament, the entire congregation was invited to share lunch in the parish compound. As abundant food was served, songs of joy still poured from the lips of the mamas.

Finally, under the cool shade of the neem tree, the wazees sat with Fr. Andrew. With grateful hearts, they appreciated the work the parish is doing in Kibish and pledged their unwavering support for all its activities. In that quiet, profound moment, we felt our Founder, Paco, was truly with us.

Lastly, we would like to express our heartfelt appreciation to all those who have worked in Kibish Parish, for the joy of this day is the fruit of your tireless labour.

May God continue to grant us wisdom through the intercession of Sts. Joachim and Anne.

By Paul Tobias
MCSPA Apprentice
Lobur Mission [Kenya]

The feast of Sts. Joachim and Anne, the beloved grandparents of Jesus, was celebrated 2 days early at Nariokotome Mission. Both these saints are patrons of the elderly, whose lives in our midst continue to remind us of the beauty of family, faith and the lasting example of loving and devoted parents.

The celebration began with Holy Mass which was presided over by Fr. Antonio Aguirre, MCSPA, assisted by Deacon Joachim Basil. The mass was beautifully animated by all MCSPA members present and also by our beloved elderly from around. Their enthusiastic participation was a touching reminder that faith has no age limit. Their prayers, joyful singing and heartfelt responses echoed the wisdom, resilience and love that they impart.

In the homily Fr. Antonio reminded us that the parents of the Virgin Mary conceived their child very late in life when they thought they would die childless. Both Sts. Joachim and Anne knew that Mary was conceived miraculously, as a result of many prayers, but they certainly had no idea what God’s plans would be for their daughter.

After mass, we all made our way to the St. Martin de Porres Bakery grounds at Nariokotome, where the festivities continued with music and dance, food and a huge cake.

And then the dancing began … If anyone thought that age slows people down, our grandmothers and grandfathers here were determined to prove them wrong. The moment the music started and especially when the cake was being cut, they danced with such passion. The enthusiasm of the elderly reminded us all that a joyful heart never grows old.

As a beautiful sign of our love and appreciation, each one of them received a blanket and a small gift bag generously facilitated by the Embassy of Spain in Kenya. Our appreciation also goes to Cantabria Labs for their continuous support which has benefited 300 elderly persons every year.

The day’s celebration was a wonderful reminder that growing old is indeed a blessing, and that joy, faith and love only become richer with the passing of the years.

May Sts. Joachim and Anne continue to intercede for all our elderly, blessing them with good health, peace, strength and abundant joy. May we never cease to honor, cherish and care for those who have walked before us and lovingly paved the way for future generations.

By Mercy Kawira
MCSPA Junior Apprentice
Nariokotome Mission [Kenya]

All 123 of our KG3 students (Kindergarten) at Muketuri set an unforgettable example recently. They seized the opportunity of the school closing day to give a powerful presentation to all present: a play that recounted the story of a blind child who was not accepted at school because of his disability.

This moving presentation by 6-year olds, sent a message to the adults: every child, regardless of ability or disability, has the right to go to school, receive an education and fulfil his or her dream. The message that every child deserves love, respect and equal opportunity sank in!

This would have been difficult to imagine a few years ago in the Muketuri area where children with special needs were usually confined in their homes.

Today, we are happy to see a great change. Children with special needs are now increasingly accepted as part of the community. Families are bringing them to school where they learn alongside other children, and they are being seen not for their disabilities rather for their abilities and dignity.

This is a beautiful sign of hope and an important step towards a more inclusive society where every child is valued and given the chance to reach his or her full potential.

Tigist Mekonnen

MCSPA Apprentice

Muketuri Mission [Ethiopia]

“You are here today not because you are perfect, but because in your imperfections, God has found you, called you, and chosen you.” This was the core of the message by Bishop John Mbinda at the ordination mass at St. Paul the Apostle Church at Nariokotome Mission, Diocese of Lodwar, Kenya.

On July 10th, The Missionary Community of St. Paul the Apostle and Mary, Mother of the Church (MCSPA) witnessed the ordination to the priesthood of their sons: Timothy Kaburu, Stephen Iyerio, Zackayo Sakwa, Cosmus Onyango and Micheal Mwangi. Together with them, Vitalis Nyongesa, of the Diocese of Lismore, Australia, was also ordained at St. Paul the Apostle Church, Nariokotome Mission.

The Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Bishop John Mbinda, CSSp, Bishop of Lodwar, together with Bishop Eduardo Hiiboro Kussala of Tombura-Yambio Diocese of South Sudan. Present were also all MCSPA priests, as well as diocesan and visiting clergy.

In his homily, Bishop John reminded the elect for ordination that priesthood is not about recognition or applause, but about humble service. Reflecting on the Gospel, he encouraged them to be priests who walk closely with God’s people, both in their good moments and in their struggles, following Christ, “who went about doing good.” He concluded with six guiding counsels to the newly ordained: To remain faithful in prayer, live with humility, stay close to the people, love your brother priests, be obedient to your bishop and superiors, and to always keep the Eucharist at the centre of their priesthood.

On behalf of the all the newly ordained, Fr. Timothy expressed his heartfelt gratitude to everyone who had nurtured their vocation and accompanied them through their years of formation. The President of the MCSPA, Scholastica Walwama, thanked all those who generously contributed to the success of the celebration. Bishop Eduardo also expressed his gratitude for the invitation and rejoiced in receiving one of the newly ordained priests to serve in his Diocese of Tombura-Yambio, highlighting the growing bond between the dioceses of Lodwar and Tombura-Yambio.

As these six new priests begin their priestly ministry in Todonyang Mission (Turkana, Kenya), Nyangatom Mission (Ethiopia), Benga Mission (Malawi), Ave Maria Mission (South Sudan), and Solor (Indonesia), we entrust them to the Good Shepherd. May they be faithful shepherds of the people, bringing His love and hope to all that they serve.

“The priesthood is not about being celebrated; it is about becoming a gift for others.”

St. Paul, pray for us!
Mary Mother of the Church, pray for us!
St Joseph, Patron of the Universal Church, pray for us!

By Joel Jeremiah and Innocent Phiri
MCSPA Apprentices

The people of Abo Kaso Koit, a small village in Muketuri, Ethiopia, recently gathered to celebrate the completion of a well that is already transforming daily life in the community.

Most families in the village depend on agriculture, growing crops such as teff, chickpeas, beans and wheat. In recent years, however, the situation of insecurity has made life increasingly difficult. Access to clean water was one of the community’s greatest challenges, forcing women and children to walk long distances to fetch water for their families.

The project was delayed for more than two year due to insecurity in the area. Despite these difficulties, the community never lost hope. Thanks to the support received, a new well was successfully drilled and is now providing clean and safe water to approximately 80 families, totalling 505 people.

The benefits are already evident: children spend more time in school; women have more time for other activities; and families have access to a reliable source of clean water, improving health and well-being in the village. It is hoped that in the future they can produce vegetables using water from the well.

To express their gratitude, the community organized a thanksgiving celebration. All gathered to share their appreciation and celebrate this important achievement together.

During the event, Lourdes Larruy, a member of MCSPA, explained that we are here to share the love of God – the same God for Orthodox, Catholics and Protestants. God is asking all of us to build a world where we can all be brothers and sisters. She encouraged them to also help one another.

The celebration was a beautiful expression of gratitude, hope and community spirit. We thank all those whose generosity and support helped make this project possible and which has now brought clean water to the people of Abo Kaso Koit.

Tigist Mekonnen

MCSPA Apprentice

Muketuri Mission [Ethiopia]