St. Charles Lwanga Parish Summary

History and Heritage: Established on June 3, 2018, St. Charles Lwanga Parish in Muyeye, Malindi, is the 21st parish of the Catholic Diocese of Malindi, entrusted to the Jesuits. Evolving from an outstation of St. Francis Xavier Parish, it reflects a renewed Jesuit presence, inspired by St. Francis Xavier’s 1542 visit to Malindi. The parish, under the patronage of St. Charles Lwanga, a Ugandan martyr, has grown from 450 Catholics in 2018 to over 870 by 2024. A new church, dedicated in 2021, accommodates ~650 worshippers, serving a multi-ethnic community of Swahili, Giriama, Luo, Kamba, and expatriates. The parish celebrates its patron’s feast and anniversary on June 3 with vibrant festivities.

Mission and Vision: Guided by Ignatian spirituality, the parish’s vision is to foster a community where all experience Christ’s fullness of life (John 10:10). Its mission is to build a Christian community promoting dignity and peaceful coexistence. Core values include reverence for life, human dignity, unity in diversity, solidarity, and spiritual depth, with the motto “For the Greater Glory of God” driving all activities.

Leadership: Led by Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Sosthenes Luyembe, S.J., since 2018, with assistants Fr. Damas Missanga, S.J., and Fr. Deshi Ramadhani, S.J., the parish benefits from Jesuit expertise in education and spirituality. The Parish Pastoral Council (PPC), chaired by Mrs. Neneya Amuma, includes lay representatives ensuring collaborative governance. Key staff, like Sr. Mary Nzisa, FSA, and catechists, support pastoral and administrative functions.

Ministries and Communities: The parish thrives through 15 Small Christian Communities (Jumuiya), each named after a saint, fostering prayer, Bible sharing, and social outreach. Outstations in Msoloni (St. Francis of Assisi) and Mayungu (St. Josephine Bakhita) extend pastoral care, despite challenges like the lack of a permanent church in Mayungu. Committees for liturgy, justice and peace, finance, development, and education enhance parish life.

Worship and Sacraments: Daily Mass at 6:30 AM (Tuesday–Sunday) and Sunday Masses at 6:30, 8:30 (Youth), and 10:00 AM anchor worship. Sacraments like Reconciliation, Baptism, and Confirmation are accessible, with communal events like Adoration and Marian devotions enriching spiritual life. The parish emphasizes inclusivity and mercy, welcoming all.

Safeguarding and Partnerships: Committed to child protection, the parish follows diocesan and Jesuit safeguarding protocols, with trained staff and a dedicated officer. Partnerships with the Diocese of Malindi, Jesuits Eastern Africa Province, St. Xavier Parish (Cincinnati), and local interfaith groups strengthen its mission. Collaborations with NGOs and government enhance community outreach.

St. Charles Lwanga Parish is a vibrant, growing community dedicated to evangelization, justice, and unity, inviting all to join in faith and service.