The First Parish in Tanzania Dedicated to St. John Paul II

On the Sunday of Jesus Christ, King of the Universe, the solemn opening of a new parish in Buhemba took place, dedicated to St. John Paul II and entrusted to the pastoral care of the Resurrectionists. Buhemba is a region covering an area of about 100 square kilometers. The new parish comprises 6 villages, with the pastoral center located in the town of Biatika. The Bishop of the Diocese of Musoma, Michael Msonganzila, arrived in Biatika on Friday to participate in a kind of "Triduum." On Friday, during the Holy Mass, he blessed two marriages, and on Saturday, he administered the sacrament of Confirmation to ninety-two candidates. This historic event mobilized the entire parish community – preparations (cleaning, decorations, meal preparation, and organizing the artistic part) lasted practically from dawn to late at night. Father Bernard Hylla CR, the Superior General, under whose direct care the Tanzanian Mission is, came from Rome for the parish opening ceremony. On Sunday, from early morning, music and singing could be heard, and choirs and the liturgical service made final preparations for the liturgy. At 10:00 AM, the Eucharist began, attended by a crowd of parishioners, numerous priests, nuns, and representatives of Christian Churches from the area. After the homily, Bishop Michael embedded the relics of the Ugandan martyrs in the altar and then anointed it. The incensing of the altar was particularly suggestive. After Holy Communion, two decrees were read: one promulgating the parish and the other appointing Father Maciej Braun CR as its first pastor. Father Maciej made a profession of faith before the Bishop, then received the keys to the tabernacle and the church, and took his place of leadership. At the end of the liturgy, Bishop Msonganzila offered his wishes, and the Superior General of the Resurrectionists greeted the participants and thanked the Bishop for the cooperation and the opportunity to conduct novitiate formation in Biatika. After the Holy Mass, there were performances by choirs and parish groups. The Novices also prepared a special program dedicated to choosing the path of religious vocation in the context of local customs and traditions, which aroused lively interest and provoked bursts of laughter. Then everyone enjoyed a hearty lunch, and guests and hosts were given commemorative gifts. May the Holy Pope intercede for the necessary graces for the Parishioners and bless the life and work of the Tanzanian Mission of the Resurrectionists.