Eucharist for the Swahili Speaking People

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“This celebration is very important to us, and for those who crossed the ocean and travelled here all the way from eastern and central Africa,” he said.

"Just a dream come true."

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Swahili serves as one of the official languages of several African countries including Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.  It is also one of the official languages of the African Union. The Swahili culture has a Bantu core that has been influenced and modified by foreign countries. 

As an introduction, Bishop Thévenot explained that Africa is a continent made up of fifty-two different countries with different languages and cultures.  He shared with those gathered that as a priest, he had dedicated his life to the people of Africa.

Joseph Kiunga, who attended the Mass, arrived in Canada from Kenya in 2001.  He summarized Bishop Thévenot’s homily given in Swahili thus encouraging those present to embrace and love each other in spite of their differences, and to bring the Good News of God’s love to the world. 

Bishop challenged the congregation, “We need to put away our differences and live united as one, because our faith is one in Christ and the cross.”

Kiunga expressed his deep gratitude and joy, “I am so blessed for being part of the celebration today.  God has been so awesome, I am so grateful!”

Vibrant music was a very moving part of the celebration, with guitars, drums, singing and dancing in beautiful African style and attire.  Visibly touched and moved, Bishop Thévenot and those gathered, stepped in time with the joyful African liturgical praise and worship music. 

Vital Mwandanga, originally from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, thanked Bishop Thévenot and rector, Fr. Matthew Nguyen, the Sacred Heart Cathedral and the Welcoming Ministry Committee for hosting the celebration.  After enjoying fellowship and refreshments, all left with the desire to repeat this unforgettable experience. 

Bishop Albert Thévenot expressed satisfaction at having lived African moments.

“This gathering gave all of us a new experience of celebrating liturgy in a different culture.  It enriched us and calls us to live this universal faith of the Church.”