ACWECA: Sr. Lando’s Book Spells Out Pastoral Challenges Sisters Who Work in Non-Catholic Institutions Face
Sr. Helen Kasaka, LSMI
Consecrated Women in Eastern and Central Africa (ACWECA) President, Sr. Grace Kyomugisha has applauded Sr. Agnes Lucy Lando of the Sisters of Mary of Kakamega, for launching her book titled ’Moving into unreached Pastoral frontiers.’
The book highlights some pastoral challenges Sisters face in their work and challenges authorities to find solutions.
Speaking during the launch on October 30, 2024, Sr. Kyomugisha commended Religious women for the role they play in transforming the society especially in rural areas and among non-Catholics.
“Our Lord did not put a barrier when he commissioned his disciples to go and preach the gospel and proclaim the kingdom of God. Our Sisters have offered their services to Catholic and non-Catholic organisations,” Sr. Kyomugisha said.
ACWECA Secretary General, Sr.Bridgita Samba said proclaiming the Gospel by lay people and young ones in non-Catholic institutions is a positive contribution from the Sisters.
According to Pauline Publications Director, Sr.Praxides Nafula, ‘ A pivotal narrative that highlights the transformative contribution of Catholic Sisters is seen in the Church’s mission which transcends traditional boundaries in the changing world.’
She said Sisters have been in the forefront of the mission, exhibiting unwavering dedication, empathy and fortitude in non-Catholic settings.
“The Gospel virtues of peace, love, togetherness are powerfully demonstrated by the Sisters’ efforts. This is according to testimony in the book produced by Pauline Publications Africa, that people occasionally feel alone,” Sr. Nafula said.
On her part, Sr. Lando said the Sisters in non-Catholic institutions are performing well, adding that they are excelling and are impactful, focused and diligent, serving with a lot of energy.
Sr. Lando, who is a full Professor of Communication and Media Studies at Day Star University appealed to the Guest of Honour, Bishop Wallace N’ganga of the Military Ordinate in Kenya, to establish an online forum for Catholic Sisters working in non-Catholic institutions, saying that it will act as a psycho-social support group.
She also urged the Association of Kenyan Sisterhood (AOSK) And ACWECA to establish comparative platforms. She further requested for a fund that would help in assisting individuals who come to seek financial assistance, as she also called for a pastoral care programme for Sisters working in non-Catholic institutions.
Bishop Chairman for Social Communication of the Kenyan Conference of Catholic Bishops, Wallace N’ganga promised to bring the pastoral gaps presented in Sr. Lando’s book to the Bishop’s Conference, saying in the spirit of synodality, it is important that Bishop’s listen to what the Holy Spirit is telling them through the book.
The Bishop urged the diocesan clergy and institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life to consider and value the special apostolate of sisters as well as men religious serving in non-Catholic institutions when creating their pastoral plans.
Sr. Lando’s book provides a unique perspective on the pressures and challenges faced by women Religious serving in what she refers to as ‘ uncharted pastoral areas’. The book sheds light on the experiences and impact of women Religious working in non-Catholic institutions especially in Eastern and Central Africa.
ENDS
