Julio RodriguezSt. Jude Parish Unveils Newly Built St. Francis Catholic Church After Years of Deterioration.
The virtues received in the sacrament of baptism yield in due time as the apostles of the gentiles remind us: “Hope do not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured into our hearts by the Holy Spirit which has been given to us.” (Rm. 5:5)
By Mwalimu Joseph Kariuki Gachie- Bura Tana, Garissa, Kenya, Africa – 29th November 2025 – drafted by Fr. Julio A. Rodriguez on December 1st, 2025.
The Catholic community in Garissa diocese witnessed a historic moment today for four reasons:
- Blessing of the Newly built Church in Village 2, St. Francis catholic community.
- The celebration of the sacrament of Confirmation.
- Receiving a special Guest of honor, Rt. Rev. Wolfgang Pisa, OFM Cap. President of the Tanzanian Episcopal Conference- presider over the mass.
- The missionary community – Missionary Fraternity of Mary clergy members together with the bishops and the laity.
It was joyfully and officially opened and blessed the newly constructed St. Francis Catholic Church, an outstation of St. Jude Thaddeus Parish, on Saturday November 29th, 2025. The colourful celebration was presided by the Most Reverend Wolfgang Pisa, president of the Tanzanian Episcopal Conference and ordinary of the Diocese of Lindi in the southern region of Tanzania bordering the Eastern region of Mosanbique.
He was joined by the ordinary of Garissa Diocese, Bishop George Muthaka, the parish priest of Our Lady of Consolata – Garissa cathedral – Fr. Alfred Njeru DD, Fr. John Mwai (OFM Cap) assistant parish priest in Hola, Assistant parish priests in Bura- Frs. Jose Ernesto Yoc Avila and Julio Antonio Rodriguez (MFM) along with the Bura Parish priest – Fr. Rolando Choc Matzir MFM.
The new church building replaces an old structure that had served the community for many years – since back in the 80’s- but it had gradually deteriorated and became unsafe for worshiping and other community activities. After consultations with the larger community leaders, the parish priest made the decision to demolish the aging building and put up a completely new and enlarged and fitting room for the catholic community members- all this with the approval of the ordinary.
Twenty Two (22) catholic christians were conferred the grace of the Holy Spirit- sacrament of Confirmation- in a joyous celebration. This sacrament was conferred by Bishop Wolfgang Pisa OFM, Cap. The presider highlighted to the confirmation candidates, “You are to become soldiers of Christ” emphasising that they are to live and defend the catholic faith. Bishop Pisi encouraged the newly confirmed to treasure the gifts of the Holy Spirit and urged all Christians to remain firm in their faith and committed to building a vibrant Church community engaged into the synodality of the Church.
Before the mass dismissal, Fr. Rolando who is the parish priest, gave a vote of thanks to:
- Propatio Fidei- Rome
- Rt. Reverent Bishop George Muthaka, OFM Cap.,
- The Missionary Fraternity of Mary (MFM) and
- Generous friends
And to the entire community who supported it up to its completion (Pews pending). He spoke widely in thanking the sponsors, well-wishers, and parishioners. He especially acknowledged Fr. Julio Rodriguez, who supervised the construction work from start to finish.
Bishop Muthaka praised the dedication of the clergy serving in St. Jude Parish, noting that the new church marks a fresh chapter for a community that had endured difficult worship conditions for many years.
Two Churches Still in Need of Urgent Support
Despite the day’s celebrations, parish leadership highlighted the need for continued support for other outstations pending to construct their worshiping temple – which are Bura East (St. Thomas) and Village 3 & 4(St. Stephen). According to parish moderator Mr. Daniel Otieno, these communities are in great need for their worshiping temples.
He appealed to Christians, donors, and well-wishers to help ensure that these communities also receive dignified places of worship.
A New Era for St. Jude Parish
The completion and dedication of St. Francis Catholic Church mark a new era of hope, renewal, and growth for St. Jude Parish. The Missionary Fraternity of Mary reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the spiritual life of the parish and supporting the wider community.
“For the glory of God is a living man; and the life of man consists in beholding God. For if the manifestation of God which is made by means of the creation, affords life to all living in the earth, much more does that revelation of the Father which comes through the Word, give life to those who see God”. (IV.20.7) (St. Irenaeus 130 AD – 202 AD)
Do not be ashamed of your history, you inspire many people to be Good.