The Congregation of Holy Cross, Province of East Africa, rejoices with deep gratitude to God for the gift of vocations and the continued growth of religious life in the region. On 17th January 2026, nine Holy Cross men professed their Final Vows at Sacred Heart Parish, Sombetini, Arusha, Tanzania, committing themselves permanently to God and …
The Congregation of Holy Cross, Province of East Africa, rejoices with deep gratitude to God for the gift of vocations and the continued growth of religious life in the region.
On 17th January 2026, nine Holy Cross men professed their Final Vows at Sacred Heart Parish, Sombetini, Arusha, Tanzania, committing themselves permanently to God and to the mission of the Congregation of Holy Cross through the vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience.
The sacred celebration was witnessed by the Superior General, Br. Paul Bednarczyk, C.S.C., and the Provincial Superior of East Africa, Rev. Fr. Peter Caxton Mayanja, C.S.C., in the presence of many Holy Cross priests, brothers, and sisters, together with family members, friends, and members of the faithful.
The men who professed Final Vows come from Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania, reflecting the missionary diversity of the Province of East Africa. Those who made their Final Profession are:
Br. Asaba Francis, C.S.C.; Mr. Birungi Richard, C.S.C.; Mr. Bajuta Kilian, C.S.C.; Mr. Mugabe Philbert, C.S.C.; Mr. Makere Isaac, C.S.C.; Mr. Akampa Victor, C.S.C.; Mr. Gabiro Enock, C.S.C.; Mr. Masiga Noah, C.S.C.; Mr. Tayebwa Deus, C.S.C.
Ordinations to the Diaconate and Priesthood
The following day, 18th January 2026, the joy of Final Profession continued with sacred ordinations at the same parish. Eight of the newly professed men were ordained deacons:
Dn. Birungi Richard, C.S.C.; Dn. Bajuta Kilian, C.S.C.; Dn. Mugabe Philbert, C.S.C.; Dn. Makere Isaac, C.S.C.; Dn. Akampa Victor, C.S.C.; Dn. Gabiro Enock, C.S.C.; Dn. Masiga Noah, C.S.C.; Dn. Tayebwa Deus, C.S.C.
In the same Eucharistic celebration, five Holy Cross confreres were ordained to the priesthood:
Fr. Edson Mwoleka, C.S.C.; Fr. Deus Bwambale, C.S.C.; Fr. Ronald Katongole, C.S.C.; Fr. Joseph Isingoma, C.S.C.; Fr. Francis Amukasa, C.S.C.
The ordinations were conferred by Rt. Rev. Prosper Baltazar Lyimo, Auxiliary Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Bariadi, in the presence of the Superior General, the Provincial Superior, many Holy Cross religious, family members, friends, and parishioners from various Holy Cross ministries.
These celebrations marked a significant moment of grace for the Church in East Africa and for the Congregation of Holy Cross. They stand as a powerful sign of hope and a testimony to God’s continued call among the young people of the region.
The Congregation of Holy Cross, Province of East Africa, gives thanks to God for these men and entrusts them to prayer as they begin this new chapter of service in the Church.
