Events
In May 2, 2026, the Comboni Missionaries of the Heart of Jesus celebrated a momentous milestone as 17 young men made their first religious profession. In a ceremony filled with prayer and tradition, these novices vowed poverty, chastity and obedience, fully embracing the charism of their congregation. This profession marks the culmination of two years of intense formation and discernment at the Comboni Novitiate in Namugongo.
During this period, the young men focused on deep spiritual growth, the intricacies of community life and a profound understanding of the evangelical counsels. Having successfully completed this stage, they are now ready to step into the world as witnesses of the Gospel. The international spirit of the Comboni Missionaries was evident in the varied assignments given to the newly professed. Their mission will take them across continents.
The international spirit of the Comboni Missionaries was evident in the varied assignments given to the newly professed. Their mission will take them across continents.
Notably: Kenya will receive three people, where one will join the Brother’s Centre in Nairobi while the other two will continue with priestly formation. Lima – Peru will receive two while three will go to Graz – Austria. Italy will receive one, while Ghana will also receive three. Additionally, three are heading to Cape Coast – South Africa while Beirut – Lebanon & DR Congo will each receive one.
Fr. Anthony Kibira Kimbowa, the Provincial Superior of Uganda and main celebrant, delivered a stirring homily rooted in the Biblical example of Abraham. He urged the young men to move with the same divine security that guided the patriarch. “God has given you the mandate of Abraham,” Fr. Anthony noted. “Be a blessing wherever you go.” He reminded the group that God is a mystery to be discovered daily. Just as St. Paul faced contradiction and rejection, so might you.
However, Fr. Anthony exhorted them not to back down but to remain rooted in faith and offer a “worthy presentation” of their mission. A central theme of the address was the necessity of sacrifice. Fr. Anthony challenged the novices to leave their comfort zones and embrace the trials of missionary life. Recalling the words of their founder, St. Daniel Comboni, who famously prayed for the cross, he issued a stark reminder of the weight of their calling. “If you do not want the cross,” Fr. Anthony cautioned, “you will become crosses for others.”
The celebration was joined by the Provincial Superiors of South Sudan, Ethiopia and Egypt-Sudan, signaling a unified regional support system for these new missionaries as they embark on their lifelong service to the marginalized.
