Province of East Africa Holds its first Chapter.

Rev. Luigi Bianco, the Pope Nuncio

The Provincial Chapter of the Congregation of Holy Cross Province of East Africa commenced on a solemn note as it opened its doors on the 4th of January 2024. The day’s proceedings began with a reverent Opening Mass, presided over by His Excellency, Most Rev. Luigi Bianco, the Pope Nuncio to Uganda.

The official inauguration of the chapter took place at precisely 8:45 am when Rev. Cyprian Binaka C.S.C, as the Provincial Superior, declared the Provincial Chapter officially open. The subsequent Mass at 10:00 am was a sacred occasion, with the Nuncio leading the Congregation in worship, setting a spiritual tone for the important events that would follow.

Rev. Cyprian Binaka C.S.C

At 11:00 am, the Pope Nuncio, His Excellency Most Rev. Luigi Bianco, delivered a compelling keynote address on the “Mission of the Church.” This insightful discourse focused on the essential role of the Congregation in fulfilling the broader mission of the Church, emphasizing the unique mission and purpose of the Congregation of Holy Cross.

The Provincial Superior, Rev. Cyprian Binaka C.S.C, took the opportunity to address the assembly at this juncture. He provided a comprehensive overview of the state of the Province, reflecting on the developments and milestones achieved since the inauguration of the Province on January 18th, 2023. His address touched upon the challenges faced, successes celebrated, and the ongoing commitment of the Province to its mission.

As the day progressed, the delegates were privileged to receive wisdom and guidance from the Superior General, Br. Paul Bednarczyk, C.S.C. At 3:00 pm, Br. Paul Bednarczyk addressed the assembly, sharing valuable insights and perspectives. His words, shaped by his extensive experience and leadership within the Congregation of Holy Cross, offered a broader perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing the Province of East Africa.

The Opening Day of the Provincial Chapter thus unfolded as a day of spiritual reflection, insightful addresses, and a reaffirmation of the mission and purpose of the Congregation of Holy Cross. The collective wisdom shared by His Excellency Most Rev. Luigi Bianco, Rev. Cyprian Binaka C.S.C, and Br. Paul Bednarczyk, C.S.C, set the tone for the deliberations and discussions that would follow in the subsequent days of the chapter, providing a strong foundation for the Province’s continued journey in faith and service.

Fr. Emmanuel Kallarackal, CSC the 1^st Assistant to the Superior General, held the concluding session of the day with a message on Pastoral ministry. He reminded the delegates from the pastoral ministry about the essentials of a priest, which include quality personal prayer/adoration, love for the church, and apostolic zeal/missionary mindedness, among others.