By Parish Reporter
July 31, 2024 (Muyeye) – Our parish experienced a slice of Jesuit tradition and Ignatian spirituality in a vibrant celebration of the Feast of St. Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Society of Jesus. On Wednesday evening, the Church of St. Charles Lwanga was filled with joy and reverence as four Jesuits and the Christian community of Muyeye gathered to honor the soldier-turned-saint who gave us the spiritual family guiding our parish[28].
The Mass began at 5:00 PM East African Time, timed perfectly to allow working faithful and students to join after their day’s duties[29]. It was a rare treat to have all four Jesuits of our local community at the altar: Fr. Sosthenes “Sossy” (Parish Priest) presided, concelebrated by Fr. Damas (Asst. Priest) and Fr. Deshi (visiting Jesuit scholar), with Sch. Wanzala assisting and serving at the altar[29]. Seeing multiple Jesuits in their white albs and stoles, one elder remarked, “Ignatius must be happy – the sons he formed are here serving us with one heart!”
In a creative twist, the homily was a tag-team affair. Each Jesuit present shared a brief reflection on the life and teachings of St. Ignatius[18]. Fr. Deshi spoke of Ignatius’ conversion – how a cannonball injury led to a cannonball moment of grace, reminding us that God can use our setbacks to redirect us to Him. Sch. Wanzala talked about the Ignatian idea of “finding God in all things,” encouraging parishioners to seek God’s presence not just in church but in daily work, nature, and even difficulties. Fr. Damas highlighted the Ignatian Suscipe prayer (“Take Lord, receive…”), inviting everyone to make a similar offering of themselves to God’s service. Finally, Fr. Sossy tied it together, emphasizing Ignatius’ legacy of forming men and women for others – and how our parish, under Jesuit care, is called to be a community for others, especially the poor and youth. The congregation was visibly engaged, some taking notes! Many said later it was illuminating to learn more about the spirituality that animates our pastors.
After the homily, the Mass proceeded beautifully. The choir added a special hymn: “Moyo wangu waufanye kuwa kama wako” (Make my heart like yours), which resonated with Ignatius’ quest to imitate Christ.
At the end of Mass, Fr. Sossy had a surprise. In his jovial style, he invited everyone to partake in the snacks and tea prepared for the occasion, but with a memorable analogy: “As we walk out of the church building, we will encounter a little boy with 5 loaves of bread and 2 fish…” he said playfully. “We believe they will be multiplied to be enough for everyone present!”[19]. Laughter rippled through the pews at this Biblical reference, and sure enough outside there was a young altar server boy standing by a table of bread and fish (fried fish pieces) – a literal staging of the miracle scenario Fr. Sossy painted. The point: there was plenty for all, mirroring the Gospel of loaves multiplication.
Following the Mass, the community did indeed gather just outside the church to share tea and a variety of delicious snacks[20]. Parishioners had contributed mandazi (donuts), samosas, and the highlight – a cake iced with “Happy Feast, St. Ignatius – AMDG!” on it. The abundance of food was such that many attendees joked they left with “full plates and full hearts,” reminiscent of the ‘12 baskets remaining’ from the Biblical story[20].
What truly marked the evening was the spirit of joy and camaraderie. Under the twilight sky, people mingled across usual circles – youth chatting with elders, CWA with Jesuit alumni present. There was laughter, and even a spontaneous competition as some tried to remember and quote the Principle and Foundation of St. Ignatius (with a prize offered for whoever could recite it – a youth leader came close!). The Jesuit priests moved among the crowd, listening and joking. Many parishioners took the chance to personally ask the Jesuits more about Ignatius or Jesuit life. “Why do Jesuits take a fourth vow?” one curious man asked Fr. Deshi, leading to an impromptu mini-catechesis over a cup of chai.
By the time darkness fell, a clear message had been woven into the fabric of our community: we are part of a bigger family, the Ignatian family, and the legacy of St. Ignatius lives on here in Muyeye. As one mother put it, “I now understand why Father always says Magis. It means we should do more good – and I feel inspired to do more for God.”
The feast ended with a lot of smiles, and perhaps a few new Ignatian devotees. Some youth even planned to start a 30-day daily St. Ignatius quote sharing on WhatsApp as a follow-up. The celebration was indeed a testament to the enduring legacy of St. Ignatius and the vibrant faith of our community[30]. In the spirit of Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam (For the Greater Glory of God), we hope to continue celebrating our Catholic saints and heritage with as much enthusiasm and faith.
St. Ignatius of Loyola, pray for us – that we may seek and find God in all things!
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