From the quiet village of Emalindi in Kakamega Diocese, a seed of faith was planted in the heart of a young boy who would later discover a calling to serve God’s people as a religious in the Congregation of Holy Cross. Francis Amukasa, C.S.C., shares his inspiring journey of faith, nurtured from childhood and strengthened through years of formation, prayer, and service.
Francis’ vocation story begins in the home of his maternal grandparents, devout Catholics who raised him from 2004. Their daily witness of faith—through evening family prayers, the rosary, mealtime blessings, and Bible storytelling—laid a strong foundation for his spiritual life. With their encouragement, he received the sacraments of Baptism, First Holy Communion, and Confirmation at Holy Cross Emalindi Parish while still in primary school.
His passion for service took root early, as he eagerly joined catechism classes and began serving daily Mass at a young age. Inspired by the missionary spirit of the Mill Hill Fathers in his region and encouraged by the Sisters of Mary of Kakamega to pursue excellence in both academics and character, Francis began to sense a deeper calling.
When his parish priest suggested he consider joining the minor seminary, Francis immediately said “yes”—even though he didn’t know where the seminary was located. With the priest’s support, he traveled for the interviews and was accepted into St. Peter’s Minor Seminary in Mukumu, where he spent the next four years discerning his vocation amidst the challenges of adolescence, financial strain, and personal family struggles.
It was in his fourth year that Francis encountered the Congregation of Holy Cross. Brother Ben Omukuyia, C.S.C., introduced him to the community and encouraged him to discern further. Francis recalls being deeply moved by the simplicity and dedication of then-Vocations Director, Fr. Luke Muhindo, C.S.C. His participation in the “Come and See” program only confirmed his sense of belonging: “If admitted into Holy Cross,” he remembers thinking, “I would happily join them.”
And he did. In 2016, Francis began his formation at André House. Looking back over the past nine years, he reflects on the journey with deep gratitude: for formators who offered wisdom, pastors who mentored him in ministry, and fellow religious who journeyed with him in hope and fraternity.
The phrases I first heard during the Come and See program—We are men with hope to bring, We prepare others for better times than ours, We are called to have the competence to see and the courage to act—these are no longer just words. They are my life,” – Francis says.
His missionary encounters, including visits to places like the East Bengali mission, have deepened his love for the charism of Blessed Basil Moreau. Though the journey has not always been easy—with struggles like language barriers and moments of uncertainty—Francis has found strength in spiritual direction, community life, and especially prayer.
“Whenever I grow weary,” he shares, “I remember that we are called to be men who work, while also being revitalized by prayer and community life. Eucharistic Adoration, in particular, speaks to me deeply. My prayer is that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life.”
As the Vocations Office, we are proud to walk with young men like Francis who respond to God’s call with faith, humility, and hope. May his story be a beacon of encouragement for others discerning a similar path.
Our Lady of Perpetual Help – Pray for Us
Congregation of Holy Cross – Province of East Africa
www.holycrosseafr.org/vocations
May God continue blessings you Francis as you work in his vineyard
Wow, this is a great inspiration to the young men and women to serve God.