Final Vows Celebration of Fr. Anyanzu and Fr. Macharia, SJ
By Fr. Odomaro, SJ
LAP reports that the Final Vows Celebration of Fr. Anyanzu, SJ, and Fr. Macharia, SJ, was presided over by Fr. Kizito Kiyimba, SJ, Provincial of the Africa Province of the Society of Jesus (AOR), during a colorful ceremony held on 12 June 2026 at the Pedro Arrupe Community Chapel, Mwangaza. The celebration attracted a large congregation and was graced by several distinguished guests from within and outside the region.
Among the international dignitaries’ present were Bishop Rodrigo Mejia, SJ, Fr. Fidelis Mukonori, from Zimbabwe, Amai Mufumira, and several other guests from Tanzania and Uganda. Representatives from various religious congregations also attended the occasion.
The liturgy was beautifully animated by a special choir coordinated by Scholastic Eric Mwaniki, whose repertoire blended Swahili, English, and Latin hymns, creating a vibrant and prayerful atmosphere.
In his homily, Fr. Kizito reflected on seven key points that connected the spirituality of the Sacred Heart of Jesus with the evangelical counsels of poverty, chastity, and obedience. He encouraged Fr. Anyanzu and Fr. Macharia to remain deeply rooted in prayer despite the demands of their apostolic commitments and busy schedules. To read the homily click here
Speaking on behalf of the newly professed Jesuits, Fr. Anyanzu expressed heartfelt gratitude for the support they had received throughout their long journey of Jesuit formation. He lightened the mood with humor, joking that Jesuits are often slow at many things—studies and formation, which explain the lengthy years of preparation, and even prayer, hence the famous 30-day retreat. His self-deprecating anecdotes drew warm laughter from the congregation.
Representing the families of the newly finally professed Jesuits, Fr. Macharia’s brother shared the family’s initial curiosity about how Final Vows differ from priestly ordination. He noted that they had expected a family celebration similar to what is customary during ordinations. He also echoed the call for the newly professed men to remain faithful to prayer, emphasizing that it is prayer above all else that sustains a religious vocation.
Fr. Desh Ramadhan, SJ, Superior of the Pedro Arrupe Community, expressed gratitude to all the guests for their presence and support. He congratulated Fr. Anyanzu and Fr. Macharia on their Final Profession and also paid tribute to Fr. Bob White, SJ, who was celebrating sixty years of priestly ministry.
The celebrations concluded with a cake-cutting ceremony followed by a festive dinner shared by all present. It was indeed a memorable occasion marked by gratitude, joy, and thanksgiving.
LAP warmly congratulates Fr. Anyanzu and Fr. Macharia on their Final Incorporation into the Society of Jesus and wishes them abundant blessings in their continued service to the Church and the Society. More Photos
