Issue
No. 38: August, 2006
The
Truth: Machakos Link Newsletter
An organ
of communication of the Catholic Diocese of Machakos
“HAPPY
THE WOMB THAT BORE YOU AND THE BREASTS YOU SUCKED!”
HOLY TRINITY CATHOLIC
UW’O FEEDBACK
CTTIM – BETTER CENTRE
FEAST OF THE MONTH – THE ASSUMPTION OF THE BLESSED
VIRGIN MARY
FOOT SOLDIERS OF CHRIST
CONGRATULATIONS
POLE
AT LAST THE YOUNG CHILD HAS STOOD UP
THE PARISH DAY – MBITINI PARISH
WELCOME BACK
TRANSFERRED
BISHOP’S DIARY
SUNDAY COMMENTARIES - AUGUST
August
6: the Transfiguration
Dn
7:9-10, 13-14; Ps: 96:1-2, 5-6; 2pt: 1:16-19; Mk: 9:2-10
The
Transfiguration is a preview of the glory which will enentually come during
which Jesus experienced that he is the CHOSEN ONE of the Father; but when one
realizes that being chosen involves suffering and rejection, that realization
is profoundly terrifying. Being the son
involves the mission of suffering and rejection; experiencing the glory of
resurrection involves the prior experience of the cross. The two are inseparable; Now that Jesus is
confirmed in his future mission, they have to come down from the clouds, back
to reality and continue the painful earthly journey until they are transformed
from dust to glory.
August
13
1kgs:
10:4-8, Ps: 33, Eph: 4:30-5;2. Jn: 6:41-51
We
can all identify with the great prophet Elijah when he exclaimed in the 1st
Reading, “I have had enough, I can’t make it any further” In the words of Jesus, ‘No one can come to me unless the father
draws him ‘. The same paradox is
expressed by Elijah, a crisis of failure, but because he allows God to draw
him, he is given strength to retrace the steps of Moses to Hore and is rewarded
there with a manifestation of God. The
paradox of the life of faith in Ephesians, is an exhortation giving two lists, one of vices and the other of
virtues and tells us what difference there is between the life of those who
feed on the bread of heaven Christ, and these who reject Him.
August
20
Prov.
9; 1-6; Ps: 33. Eph: 5:15-20: Jn: 6: 51 – 58
Today’s
second reading consists of three contrasts all saying essentially the same
thing. Christians are to live not as
foolish persons but as wise, not in ignorance, but trying to understand God’s
will, not drunk on wine but filled with the spirit. The same contrast is implicit in the first
reading too, Wisdom issues her invitation to those who do not possess the
wisdom of life and ruin their existence by behaving foolishly.
The
gospel tells us of the wisdom that comes from God and nourishes us, “The bread
that I shall give is my flesh for the life of the world”. We eat the wisdom of God; it becomes part of
our being and nourishes us to live a life of wisdom.
August
27
Jos:
24:1-2, 15-18; Ps: 33: 2-3, 16-23, Eph: 5:21-32; Jn: 6:60-69.
Today’s
first reading describes the covenant renewal before Joshua “dismissed the
people, each to his own heritage” What’s
striking about the passage is, that it shows how every generation must, freely
choose to live in covenant with God. In
the gospel Jesus puts a similar choice before his disciples; unless you eat the
flesh of the son of man and drink his blood, you do not have life within
you. His words are a hard saying that divides
the disciples. So he asks the
disciples. “Do you also want to go
away?” We have to choose freely, fully, to participate in the death and life of
Jesus. The same theme is in
Ephesians. Respect and love between
husband and wife draws inspiration from the love and respect that Christ and
the church have for one another – the mystical body of Christ.
Sr. Anna
Dennehy R.N.D.M
HOLY
TRINITY CATHOLIC
TAWA
CONFIRMATION
Being
the year of the family, it was evident that the family of Tawa Parish is still
alive and kicking. This was seen clearly
during the Bishop’s visit at Tawa Parish to give the Sacrament of Confirmation
on the 15th and 16th July of this year respectively. Tawa parish which has two zones i.e. Tawa
zone and Iiani were very eager waiting for these two days to dawn. On 15th of July everybody was
dressed to suit the occasion.
As
the bishop arrived at Iiani Zone, he was met with ululations of joy and
welcome. Prior to embarking on the
events of the day, His lordship made a visit to Tulimani the site where the
proposed new parish is going to be. The
Bishop was very happy indeed for the efforts of the local community and he
commended their good work. The Bishop
promised to assist in roofing the church and said he will be the guest of
honour next year.
As
the Mass started, Fr. Josephat Kyambuu welcomed the Bishop to Tawa parish and
in particular to Iiani zone where we were.
The Bishop led the Holy Mass which was very solemn. The church was full to the brim of
people. Everybody was lively and very
active in the liturgy. In his homily the
Bishop challenged the Christians to live an austere life worthy of meriting
eternal life. He pinpointed cultural
practices such as “Masya, ndundu, ngata, ithitu etc as great enemy of
Christianity and called all Christians to shun such practices and instead
embrace the life of sacraments. He
called those being confirmed to be true soldiers of Christ, defending the faith
of the church and be committed to its needs.
The Bishop gave the analogy of our Kenyan soldiers who of late appear
first on the list of shame and corruption and encouraged those confirmed to be
faithful soldiers of Christ.
As
it were, things were the same at Tawa Zone on 16th July; the Bishop
had an opportunity of talking with our students (Tawa girls) and encouraged
them. He told them to be focused on
their studies hence promising scholarship of one year to the best candidate. Those confirmed were 328 in the two zones
i.e. Iiani zone 223 and Tawa Zone 105.
Those newly confirmed had a cake which they shared. The Fr. In change and his assistant Fr.
Boniface Mutua, the parish chairman Richard Nthuku and the Parish chairlady
Theresia Musyoka thanked the Bshop on behalf of Tawa parish for his visit. As the Motto goes “That all may be one” was
expressly shown when Tawa parish came together to welcome the Bishop and to
witness the new confirmants. The family
that prays togather stays together.
Thank you Bishop and welcome again to Tawa Parish. May God bless you.
By
Rev. Fr. Boniface Mutua
Assistant
Priest – Tawa Parish
UW’O
FEEDBACK
In
my humble opinion Uw’o is making a mistake, made by others in the past - input
is 100% clerical in the sense that recognition is 100% Bishop,
Priests or Sisters. Are there no people of God in Machakos Diocese who
can contribute or be recognized even after sterling service to the Diocese?
The late Matilda Manthi traversed the Diocese of Machakos on a motor bike for
years, as an elderly woman, organizing -lecturing and was a true Apostle
of the Church - I have yet to see any tribute to her in UW’O? I sent a tribute
about another Apostle in Machakos Diocese about a year ago not a word appeared,
ignore the laity and the Church will become a clerical/sister institution.
It has happened elsewhere and the Church has suffered a slow and painful
demise.
Fr
Brendan Heeran CSSp.
CTTIM
- BETTER CENTRE
Br. Daniel Ndathi is the new manager
of the Institute.
Welcome brother and take
courage
Feast of the month - the ASSUMPTION OF the blessed virgin
mary
In
Mary’s glorious Assumption, we celebrate the fulfillment of our Christian
destiny and with her, we proclaim the greatness of the Lord. The Holy fathers and great doctors the church
in their homilies spoke of the assumption of the mother of God as something
already familiar and accepted by the faithful.
They brought out more clearly the fact that what is commemorated in this
feast is not simply the total absence of corruption from the dead body of the Blessed
Virgin Mary but also her triumph was death and her glorification in heaven
after the pattern set by her only son Jesus Christ.
Like
any other human being, the Blessed Virgin Mary once lived here on earth, she
undertook all human activities and expressed challenges of life, joys and
difficulties just as we do, but she kept herself close to God, serving him with
humility, purity and commitment. God chose her to bear our saviour Jesus.
From
her life she is a perfect example of discipleship, she says “Yes to God’s
project of salvation. She is even ready to help her cousin Elizabeth and
praises God for what he has done in her (Lk: 1:39-55). Above all she listened to God through the
Angel Gabriel and tried to understand the mysterious message. She listened to what the shepherds said about
him being the saviour (Lk: 1:11-12) and to her son’s words when she found him
in the temple. Mary was attentive to
receive God’s word which came to her directly from the Angel or indirectly from
people or in the ordinary events of life.
Though
she didn’t understand God's message fully, she trusted in him and was open to
do his will. She is an example to Christians who want to follow Christ
faithfully.
Today,
many Christians for want of proper formation and faith are carried away by new
religious movement and led to despire Mary.
They accuse Catholics of adoring Mary.
It is not only adoration of the catholic faith but also betrays
ignorance of what the bible says of Mary.
Mary is an example of faith and discipleship and we need to live by her
example. It is our abnormal in our
African cultures to honour somebody and despise his/her mother
Reflection: By the virtue of baptism, God is calling us
today for a mission just like Mary. How
are we responding? Have we been
attentive to listen to his mission which comes to us through our pastors, other
Christians, friends even enemies? What is God saying to us through them?
Secondly,
God has a plan for each one of us. We
tend to despair when faced with problems and challenges. Let us discover the
will of God in our lives. Through prayer
and faithful service God will never abandon us.
Thirdly
God is asking us to bring Jesus to our world filled with evils. We are limited
and weak but God is with us. We
shouldn’t be discouraged be humble and trust in God’s protection and guidance.
Just
like Mary, Let God control our lives. If we serve God faithfully here on earth,
we shall join our dear Mother Mary in heaven to live and praise God for ever.
Amen.
By Rev. Fr.
Alphonse Muema
FOOT SOLDIERS OF CHRIST
When
you think about your faith do you remember those who taught you the word of
God? This month, Machakos Diocese pays tribute to the good work done by
catechists in the Diocese. We bring you a feature on a number of catechists
drawn from different parishes in the Diocese.
The
work done by catechists is akin to the foot soldiers in a war. Though not well
armed with the relevant arms of war they crown the efforts that the Bishops,
Priests, Brothers and Sisters make in ensuring that the faith of the Catholic
followers remains strong. It is with great challenges sometimes only sustained
by the love and the ‘divine providence’ of God that our catechists hold on to
their work, some for a lifetime. What other encouragement would be there for
the continuing, young and aspiring catechists? We bring you the story of two
long serving catechist and a young aspiring catechist just 8 months into the
job. The true foot soldiers of Christ!
Catherine
Nduku Malinda, Raphael Kitumo and Immaculate Mwikali
How
many of us in the church have served under the last seven popes? Meet Catherine
and Raphael, who have accomplished this great feat.
Both
born in 1924 and from Mwala parish, they have served the church for over 50
years. They were crucial in the setting up of the church in Mwala. Catherine
was among the four people including Fr. Luigi who went to see the Machakos D.C
requesting to build the old Mwala Parish centre.
Raphael
was taught catechism by the late John Thombolo for three years and was baptized
in 1951. He also got some training at Kiteta Parish for 2 months. For Catherine,
the Sisters of St. Theresa of the child Jesus,
Catherine
& Raphael both decry what seems to be a slow decline in the faith of the
Catholic Christians. “Some people seem to have lost the sense of sacredness”
Catherine said during the interview. She gave a simple example of the necessary
genuflection and bowing that a Catholic should observe as some of the emerging
weaknesses in the church -some overlook these among other practices. For
Raphael, he reminds the youth to be more respectful of their elders including
church leaders so as to lead fruitful lives.
They
cited the lack of or poor remuneration as the biggest challenge that catechists
face. Raphael says that Catechist work full time, as they have to uphold good
behavior and morals so as to keep the confidence of their followers. He
proposes that some projects be set up to support their work and also ensure
that catechists lead a decent life. Catherine urges the Catholic faithful to be
more respectful of the work of Catechists and support them. They also asked the
church to put more effort in educating catechists. According to them every
Christian should keep on revising the catechism so as not to get out of touch
with the teachings of the church.
She
also humbly requests the Priests to take an active role in teaching the faith
as it used to be taught. Catherine leads a very exemplary life to date which
she learnt in her catechism classes and worth emulating by every Christian. She
greatly minds the welfare of the priests serving in her area, providing food
for them every week. She also believes in taking care of the poor and the sick.
She remembers her late husband John Malinda, a former D.O who supported her all
along as she pursued the passion of her life.
And
at 19 years of age, Immaculate Mwikali is like an answer to the
above catechists. She serves Kikeneani outstation in Katangi Parish. Immaculate
finished her Form four studies last year at Kathiiani Girls’ high school. Where
she was the Young Christian Students (YCS) Chairperson in her fourth form. All
her years she has taken part in church activities and no wonder here she is
today.
She
has shown a great interest in doing the work of God in whatever capacity. She
got this opportunity to serve as a Catechist in December and since then she has
not looked back. So far she is satisfied with her work and hopes to continue
until she joins college. She is happy to be making a contribution to the growth
of faith among her people. For now most of her students are primary school
children although some parents have shown interest in attending her classes
too.
Some
of the set backs that she has met in her work are those parents, who at times,
do not allow their children to attend the catechism classes ending up missing
the sacrament of baptism. Some other children are too young to understand. She
challenges to the youth not to shy away from serving God in whatever capacity.
Immaculate promises to go on teaching the word of God even in college which she
hopes to join soon. To you all
Catechists, the Bishop and the entire Church leadership in Machakos Diocese
salute your good efforts. Keep up the spirit.
By
Stephen Muinde
CONGRATULATIONS
Fr. George Katua is the Fr.
In charge Makaveti Parish.
Fr. Francis Mwanza Assitant
Priest Kangundo Parish
Take courage our dear
brothers and be assured of our prayers.
Wishing you a fruitful
apostolate.
POLE
We say pole to Fr. Francis
Kunyusa who lost his brother and Uncle to Fr. Kennedy Kitheka. We support you in prayers.
We pass our condolences to
the family of the late Fr. John Mutiso who went to the Lord. Feel supported in
prayers. Take courage and be strong.
“AT
LAST THE YOUNG CHILD HAS STOOD UP”
His
Lordship the Bishop set it rolling. During his visits last year he said “NGULI
YOONA NGULI IKEKA” .he repeated the same on 14/7/06 during thanksgiving
mass and added another one “KAYAUNGAMA” – the young child of Michael and Mary had crawled for long, but to
the joy of her mother it supported itself on a chair and stood up. The mother
shouted “KAYAUNGAMA”.
Yes,
CMA/CWA has stood up when the new magnificently decorated vehicle rolled its
wheels inside the Cathedral grounds; CMA/CWA members lined up, cheered and sang
songs of praise celebrating their achievement. Yes the achievement of the
entire Diocese.
KAV
207V was blessed by our Bishop Martin Kivuva and handed keys to our
co-ordinator Sr. Bernadette Munyao. At media centre, our Bishop who is ever
with us, advising and supporting us said devotion, fear of God, respecting one
another and praying together at all levels – home, outstations up to the
Diocese level, will lead us to be united and live as one family of Gods
children. Sr. Bernadette could not hide
her joy – she thanked our Bishop, the Priests and all those who supported her
in this project. It is through the power of God that we have reached this far.
The vehicle KAV 207 belongs to the Diocese of Machakos and will be used as a
tool for Evangelization for Men and Women in the Diocese.
The
CMA vice – chairman reaffirmed the Bishops words and said “YOTE
YANAWEZEKANA’ our Vehicle will enable our Co-ordinator co-ordinate
evangelization activities in the Diocese. The CWA Chairlady reminded us that a
family with a stable father and mother can do wonders – she summed it all and
said “thank you God” for we have realized we are able.
Mr.
Kikolya reminded us that once a problem is identified it is easy to solve it.
CMA/CWA identified their problems and are solving them positively. A 96 year grandfather (Anthony) advised
Catholics to Guard our faith and reject any false teachings and acts.
Makindu
parish choir graced the occasion and had their day during the mass reception.
Our Bishop blessed their products – tapes, CDs and Video tapes.
We
thank our entire Parishes and priests for their support during the raffle sale
and even up to today when we received our office vehicle.
Self
sacrifice, unity, respect at all levels in the Diocese will lead us to greater
achievement in evangelization and solidify true family values and self –
reliance.
REPORT
COMPILED BY: PATRICK MUTUNGI.
DIOCESAN
VICE – CHAIRMAN CMA SECRETARIATE
THE
PARISH DAY - MBITINI PARISH
Mulala
Catholic Church which takes the name “The Sacred Heart of Jesus” celebrated its
special day this year. The Sacred Heart
of Jesus has its special place in this church.
This long awaited day finally came with the sun shining brilliantly on
25/6/2006 Christians from the outstations within the parish thronged the church
and before the Mass began, the church was full to capacity.
The
Fr. In charge Fr. Urbanus Mutuku, had earlier invited the main celebrant Fr.
Daniel Mwanzia and other priests and guests for this parish day. The Holy Mass for this special day began with
the liturgical dances towards the alter.
Before beginning the Mass all Christians were welcomed for this
occasion.
In
his homily, Fr. Daniel Mwanzia explained concisely about the love shown in the
Sacred Heart of Jesus as the Christians listened intently. This Love, he said is spilled all over the
world for all.
This
special day was marked by the baptism of twenty infants aged between 1 – 3
months. The Congregation was radiant
with joy as they clapped and ululations rent the church after the baptism of
these little “Angels” At the end of the Mass, various guests gave brief
speeches and together with Parish youth contributed cash towards the diocesan
collections. Every moment of this parish day was enjoyed.
By
Mrs. Alice Muli - Mbitini Parish
WELCOME
Diocese
of Machakos welcomes our first Community of 4 sisters together with their Provincial
Mother Superior from
WELCOME BACK
We
welcome Rev. Fr. Francis Kavulya after a successful CPE studies of two
months.
Fr.
Francis is now sent to assist in Kikumini Parish
TRANSFERRED
Fr.
Daniel Mwanzia has moved from St. Thomas Aquinas to St.Mathius Mulumba
Tindinyo.
BISHOP’S
DIARY
August
Bishop will be out in the
month of August for Annual Leave.
Msgr. Alfons Mondiu will be
in charge of the general affairs of the Diocese. Thanks.
September
18th Workshop - Small Homes
21st Caritas Meeting -
22nd Tulimani Girls
24th Final Profession - Meru
26th
27th Hospital Board meeting
28th Caritas Meeting
30th Katoloni Pastoral visit
To agree
together is to make progress
Catholic Diocese of Machakos
P.O. Box – 344 - 90100, Machakos
Tel. +254-044-20484; Fax-254-044-21308
E-mail: bishopsomks@wananchi.com
Website: http//www.machakosdiocese.org