Seeds of Faith, Fruits of Service: ITCJ in Full Bloom
By Valentino Okwero, SJ
“The Lord is indeed risen, alleluia, alleluia.”
Warm Easter greetings and peace from the Institut Théologique de la Compagnie de Jésus (ITCJ) in Abidjan.
We have recently been blessed with a series of events that have greatly enriched our spiritual life. At the heart of these moments was the Easter celebration—a deeply moving occasion that fostered an atmosphere of prayer and joy, reflecting the hope and new life proclaimed by the Resurrection.
A particularly significant highlight was the Diaconate Ordination held at ITCJ. During this sacred celebration, fifteen companions and two from other congregation were ordained as deacons, taking an important step forward on their journey toward priesthood. Among the fifteen, was our own Alvin Mulinge, S.J. Their ordination is a call to greater service—proclaiming the Gospel, assisting in the liturgy, and dedicating themselves to works of charity. This event was not only a moment of grace for the ordinands but also a source of inspiration for the entire community.
In a spirit of gratitude and hope for the future, and as we mark 40 and 50 years as a Province, we also participated in a tree-planting initiative alongside Fr. Kizito Kiyimba, AOR Provincial. This initiative commemorate the 40th and 50th Jubilee anniversaries of the Jesuit Eastern Africa Province. Beyond its symbolic value, the gesture reflects our shared commitment to caring for our common home. Each tree planted stands as a living testament to growth, dedication, and the enduring legacy of Jesuit mission in Eastern Africa.
Together, these events highlight the vibrant life of ITCJ—rooted in faith, committed to service, and attentive to the signs of the times in African soil.
