On 22nd to 25th of February, 2024, I led a group of ten students from Uganda Martyrs University as we embarked on a transformative journey to the community of Panyangara Parish, guided by a spirit of mission and compassion. Our visit was not merely a break from university life but a profound opportunity to immerse ourselves by sharing in the lives of the people in this arid, yet resilient, region of Karamoja.
As we traversed the scorching lands from Napak to Kotido district, questions arose about the endurance of the locals amidst such harsh conditions. However, our encounter with the community revealed a profound resilience and an unwavering spirit of love and togetherness. Through conversations I shared while still at university, the team gained insight into the struggles faced by these people, igniting within them a fervent desire to offer support for a brighter future.
Our journey led us to Kalosarich, a place deeply ingrained in my heart, where the memory of Fr. Declan O’Toole Apalopus, an Irish Mill Hill missionary, resonates in this community with a cross welcoming us along the lonely Moroto road, remains a guiding light.
” Fr. Declan’s vision for the growth of the Church through education resonated deeply as we visited Kalosarich primary school”
Bearing gifts of soap, clothing, shoes, books, and pens. Additionally, we provided reusable sanitary towels crafted by a community of deaf children from St Anthony’s schools of the deaf in Mpigi district, a symbol of inclusivity and compassion for the needs of each other.
In the footsteps of Fr. Declan, on the following morning, we continued our mission to Nakapelimoru primary school at Watakau chapel, where we extended our support to the children and families in need. Amidst the challenges faced by the community, the spirit of service shone brightly, echoing the teachings of Christ to love one another and care for the least among us.
We identified a challenge with children who could not access school because they are handicapped and disabled, and children sleeping on tumplines at the schools, we have agreed to visit them at the end of May with wheel chairs and mattresses to support the two communities, we were delighted that Fr Denis Wanjala could help us identify this so much crippled children and would share their stories with us.
Our efforts reflect the essence of Lenten obligations in the Catholic Church, a time of reflection, repentance, and service. As stated in Matthew 25:40, “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” Through our actions, I and the team exemplified the true meaning of Lent, embodying the compassion and selflessness central to the Christian faith. I am happy that I am able to reciprocate back to the society of Mill Hill through supporting the suffering children in my own parish of panyangara and paint a smile on their faces.
The team committed to supporting the education of two children from Kalosarich primary school who were identified by the Headteacher, this epitomizes the spirit of generosity and stewardship encouraged during Lent. In Galatians 6:9, we are reminded, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
In conclusion, I and my fellow students have set a remarkable example of living out the Lenten season, not only through prayer and fasting but through tangible acts of kindness and solidarity with those in need. Our journey serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration, demonstrating the transformative power of compassion and service in fulfilling the call of Christ to love and serve one another which is what Cardinal Herbert Vaughan always desired for his people.
Mathias Makoba Siligi
Diocesan Youth secretary
Diocese of Kotido.
