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]

“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

On 23rd February 2026, we inaugurated the dormitory, toilets and water infrastructure of Nariokotome Girls’ Secondary School. It was a joyful and historic occasion for the entire Nariokotome community … and we were even blessed with light showers!

The event brought together the members of MCSPA at Nariokotome, members of the Board of Management (BOM) of the school, the contractors and the whole school fraternity to celebrate this important event. The ceremony began with Holy Mass presided over by Frs. Zacchaeus Okoth and Antonio Aguirre. During the mass Fr. Zacchaeus reminded everyone of the unity, faith and shared commitment that made the whole project possible.

During the celebration, the principal of the school expressed her deep gratitude to the MCSPA members of Nariokotome Mission, the contractors and the donors whose dedication, generosity and hard work turned the vision of the dormitory into reality.

The atmosphere was filled with joy and pride as students, teachers, and MCSPA community members reflected on the journey that led to this achievement. The inauguration symbolized not only the opening of a new building but also the strengthening of partnership and solidarity within the community. It stood as a testimony to what can be accomplished when people come together for a common purpose.

The new dormitory is of great importance to this secondary school for girl-child. It will provide the girls with a safe, secure and comfortable place to stay in, creating a conducive environment for learning and personal growth. With improved living conditions, academic performance, discipline, and overall student well-being is also promoted.

Ultimately, the dormitory represents hope, progress and a brighter future for the students and the entire Nariokotome community.

Lenny Jilo, MCSPA

Nariokotome Mission [KENYA]

Today at Muketuri, we celebrated the 13th anniversary of the passing of our dear Paco.

We gathered at the Holy Family Ecumenical Chapel with the youth, women and children from different faiths to remember and celebrate the life of the Founder of MCSPA, Fr. Francisco “Paco” Andreo.

We began with the Liturgy of the Word, led by Blanca and followed by Esther, who shared a reflection on Paco’s life. She reminded us how Paco guided the members of MCSPA, how he chose a simple life, and how deeply he loved Africa.

After the celebration, we planted a fig tree to mark the day.

Paco always insisted on planting fruit trees and vegetables, so that our surroundings could become like a garden than is able to feed people.

And finally, we shared a meal together with everyone who attended.

May Paco’s life continue to inspire us all!

By Tigist Mekonnen

MCSPA Apprentice

Muketuri Mission [Ethiopia]

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

In every culture and tradition, caring for the elderly is seen as a noble and meaningful act. Showing love and respect, and according attention and dignity is a simple yet profound way of taking care of the elderly.

We have a group of 30 elderly persons whom we support with monthly rations. Also, every year we organize a special meal for all the elderly of Dakuna village and the surrounding villages. This year on the feast day of St, Gregory the Great, we at St Scholastica Mission organized a meal for 45 elderly men and women. We also took food to the home-bound, making a total of 102 beneficiaries.

Apart from offering them a warm plate of food, we shared conversation and compassion. The fellowship was warm and provided a deep sense of belonging. After all the activities, we distributed soap and salt.

The gratitude so apparent in their eyes, the stories heartwarmingly shared, and a presence that was warm and reassuring … all a gentle reminder of the value of life and the power of human connection! A two-way exchange becomes apparent: while they received care, we received wisdom and blessings!

A meal given lovingly can be a prayer in action – a silent, powerful gesture that uplifts hearts. In a fast-paced world, taking time to feed and care for our elderly is a way to pause, reflect and give back!

We would like to express our gratitude to all who collaborated in this endeavour, especially the GREGO (a group from Las Palmas de Gran Canaria in Spain) and their families and friends who support this annual event for the elderly. Our thanks also go to friends from Mexico.

“When you feed an elder, you don’t just give them food, you give them joy, remembrance and hope.” – an African proverb.

By Lydiah Obok, MCSPA

St. Scholastica Mission, Dakuna (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,