By Rev. Fr. Apire Berry, C.S.C, Parish Priest (St. André Bessette Parish in Koch Goma)
The vibrant Catholic community of St. André Bessette Parish in Koch Goma, Gulu Archdiocese, witnessed two days of extraordinary grace and celebration as the parish marked its first anniversary with faith-filled events that underscored its spiritual growth and transformation.
On January 18, 2025, His Grace Raphael p’Mony Wokorach, MCCJ, Archbishop of Gulu, presided over a Eucharistic celebration to bless and inaugurate the Deacon Erogi Community House. This milestone symbolized the continued commitment of the Congregation of Holy Cross to building faith-filled communities and fostering spiritual development within the archdiocese. The day also served as a prelude to the anniversary celebration of St. André Bessette Parish, named in honor of the humble saint whose life of service continues to inspire generations.
The event brought together a diverse assembly, including parishioners, the Sisters of Holy Cross, religious clergy, and members of the Congregation of Holy Cross. Among those present were Rev. Fr. Berry Apire, C.S.C., Parish Priest of Koch Goma, Rev. Fr. Joachim, C.S.C., Seminarian Edson, C.S.C., and Rev. Fr. Arnold Jawiambe, C.S.C., who represented the Provincial Superior of the Congregation of Holy Cross Province of East Africa. Though unable to attend, Brother Morris, C.S.C., was acknowledged for his contributions to the growth of the community.
The archbishop, in his homily, reminded the faithful of the transformative power of unity and humble service. He emphasized the importance of nurturing faith and building strong communities rooted in Gospel values, a message resonant with the life and mission of St. André Bessette.
Marking One Year of Faith and Transformation
The celebrations reached their zenith on January 19, 2025, when St. André Bessette Parish commemorated its first anniversary with a vibrant liturgical celebration led once again by His Grace Raphael p’Mony Wokorach. The joyous occasion highlighted the remarkable spiritual growth of the parish and its significant impact on the local community.
Key moments of the day included:
- The Confirmation of 174 Christians, marking their full initiation into the Catholic Church and their strengthened commitment to Christ.
- The Sacrament of Holy Matrimony for 14 couples, a testimony to the parish’s role in nurturing Christian family life.
- The Commissioning of 177 leaders of Small Christian Communities (SCCs), recognizing their vital role in fostering fellowship, evangelization, and faith formation at the grassroots level.
- The Installation of the Head Catechist as an Extraordinary Eucharistic Minister, empowering him to support the parish’s sacramental and pastoral mission.
In his homily, the archbishop commended the parish for its unwavering dedication to building the Church through Small Christian Communities. He praised St. André Bessette Parish as a beacon of faith and a model of the Church’s mission in the Archdiocese of Gulu. He urged the faithful to draw inspiration from St. André Bessette, whose humility and devotion to service continue to guide the work of the Congregation of Holy Cross worldwide.
A Testament to Faith and Collaboration
The anniversary celebrations reflected the collaborative efforts of clergy, religious, and laity in building a vibrant and spiritually dynamic community. Special thanks were extended to Rev. Fr. Berry Apire, C.S.C., for his dedicated leadership, and Rev. Fr. Arnold Jawiambe, C.S.C., for representing the Provincial Superior during this significant milestone. The contributions of the Sisters of Holy Cross and other religious leaders were also acknowledged, as they continue to play an integral role in the parish’s growth and mission.
The Deacon Erogi Community House, inaugurated during the celebrations, serves as a vital resource for the parish, fostering community-building and supporting pastoral work. Its establishment is a testament to the Congregation of Holy Cross’s commitment to empowering communities and sustaining the legacy of St. André Bessette.
Looking Ahead with Faith
As St. André Bessette Parish celebrates its first anniversary, it stands as a testament to the transformative power of faith, service, and community. The Congregation of Holy Cross, guided by its mission to make God known, loved, and served, remains steadfast in its commitment to accompanying the faithful on their journey of faith and service.
May the intercession of St. André Bessette continue to inspire humility, compassion, and unwavering trust in God’s providence as the parish looks forward to even greater milestones in the years to come.
Last modified: January 27, 2025
