Kimwenza

Fr. Gabriel Kunonga, SJ, pronounced Final Vows on the Feast of St. Joseph the Worker.

As the Approved Scholastics promise to enter the Society of Jesus when called to by the Society, it was a profound celebration of this commitment when Fr. Gabriel pronounced his final vows in this least Society of Jesus on May 1st, coinciding with the Feast of Saint Joseph the Worker. The event, held at the St. Pierre Canisius Chapel, Kimwenza, brought together a diverse assembly of religious and laypeople to witness this definitive step.

The Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Fr. Kyungu Rigobert, the Provincial of the Central Africa (ACE) Province. The liturgy began at 11:30 a.m., and later the community opened its doors to cater for the assembly present for the meals and other refreshments.

It is well to be noted that the event commenced on the evening of Thursday, April 30, when, in Adoration before the Blessed Sacrament, Fr. Gabriel made his renunciation of properties, a vital practice preceding the final profession. The guests and the invitees left the community around 1800hrs.

Father Gabriel is a well-known figure in our AOR province, both within the academic and administrative circles. Having done his theological studies in Hekima, Nairobi (2014-2017), and he has notably worked with Fr. Kabutta, Fr Fidelis and other Jesuits across the province. He currently serves as the Dean of the Faculty of Economy at Loyola University of Congo (ULC), Administrator of the budget of the same university, while also serving as the Consultor. In the scholasticate, Saint Pierre Canisius, he serves as the Pere Econome.

The community expresses deep appreciation to Father Gabriel for his generous support, and special thanks are extended to Fr. Topia Mpangi, the minister of the community, for his keen organization. To all who gave company in prayers, travelled to offer their presence, and all who accompanied him in his formation, the community remains indebted.