The Holy Family Katulikire Parish, located in the Hoima Diocese of Uganda, is a place of refuge for people displaced by conflict and hardship. Refugees from Congo, Kenya, and South Sudan, as well as Ugandans who have been forced to leave their homes, have found a welcoming community here. The parish has opened its doors to these individuals, offering support and a chance to become part of the local Catholic community.
To better understand the needs of this diverse community, Sr. Lucy Akello, a member of the Little Sisters of Mary Immaculate of Gulu, conducted a survey. Sr. Lucy, who holds a Ph.D. in Behavioral and Social Science/Pedagogy, wanted to gain a clear picture of the parish’s strengths and challenges. Working closely with the parish priest and catechists, she reached out to people of all ages and backgrounds, including school children, young adults, married couples, and those who rarely attend church.
The response to the survey was impressive, with 1,800 people sharing their thoughts. The results revealed several key issues facing the parish. Many young people, particularly those who have experienced war and displacement, expressed a strong desire for income-generating activities like tailoring or hairdressing. These young people often lack formal education and hope to receive practical training to become self-sufficient. However, a lack of funds makes it difficult for them to start their own businesses.
Another major challenge is the language barrier within the parish. With three common languages used during services, many parishioners struggle to understand the Mass, leaving them feeling like outsiders. To address this, Sr. Lucy suggested offering language classes to help everyone feel included and fully participate in the liturgy.
Married couples in the parish also face difficulties. Some feel discouraged because they believe active Church membership requires financial contributions or that their marital issues might disqualify them. Sr. Lucy proposed offering catechesis tailored to marital concerns and creating a more welcoming environment.
The survey also highlighted the need for better leadership in the parish’s mission chapels. Many chapel leaders, who lack formal education, struggle to fulfill their roles. Sr. Lucy emphasized the importance of training programs to equip these leaders with the skills they need. She also pointed out the need for ongoing catechesis to help all parishioners embrace their responsibilities within the Church.
Finally, the survey revealed that some elderly parishioners feel neglected and abandoned. Sr. Lucy stressed the importance of creating support systems to ensure these older members of the community feel included and cared for.
One surprising finding from the survey was that many parishioners see Church contributions as a burden rather than a shared responsibility. Sr. Lucy believes that better catechesis could help foster a sense of stewardship, encouraging everyone to contribute to the Church’s growth.
Sr. Lucy’s survey offers a valuable model for other parishes. By addressing the challenges identified through the survey—such as language barriers, the need for livelihood skills training, and the importance of catechesis—the Holy Family Katulikire Parish can become a more inclusive and vibrant faith community. Understanding the unique needs of each parish is essential for providing effective pastoral care and ensuring that everyone feels welcome and supported.
Source: Vatican News
