Catholic Diocese of Tombura-Yambio Gears Up for Ave Maria's Extraordinary Centenary Launch
Catholic Diocese of Tombura-Yambio Gears Up for Ave Maria's Extraordinary Centenary Launch
By Sr. Henriette Anne, FSSA
In the picturesque setting of Ave Maria Mission in Ngoboko Village, Rii Yubu Payam, Tombura County, the Catholic Diocese of Tombura-Yambio (CDTY) is gearing up for an extraordinary event – the Ave Maria Centenary Launch and Mutual Relations Open Forum. This four-day program, from Monday, December 4th, to Thursday, December 7th, 2023, promises to be a celebration of faith, reconciliation, and collaboration.
Building Bridges through Dialogue
The opening day sets the tone for the entire gathering, with arrivals, registration, and socializing beginning at 4:00 pm. The evening is marked by a presentation of the encounter, setting the stage for the days to come. As participants gather for supper, volunteers take charge of the washing up, embodying the spirit of communal responsibility.
Healing the Past and Building Mutual Relationships
The second day delves into the theme of "Healing the Past," starting with morning prayer and breakfast. A series of presentations on charisms, spirituality, and apostolate by different communities in the CDTY follow, showcasing the challenges and joys of their workplaces. The day progresses with a focus on reconciliation, addressing misunderstandings, and culminates in a Reconciliation Liturgy.
Day three, themed "Building Mutual Relationships," emphasizes the importance of unity in diversity. Workshops, group discussions, and reflections on Vatican documents underscore the commitment to mutual understanding and collaboration. The day concludes with a talent show night and a Eucharistic celebration.
Collaboration and Looking to the Future
The final day centers around collaboration among all agents and planning for the future. Deaneries come together for discussions on mutual support and sharing of ideas. The afternoon sees the presentation of the Religious Superiors Association of South Sudan (RSASS), followed by addresses from Bishops Eduardo Hiiboro and Christian Carlassare. The encounter wraps up with an evaluation, sports, table games, and a candle procession and Rosary.
Ave Maria Centenary Launch
On Thursday afternoon, Ave Maria welcomes the general arrival of Christians, distributing spaces within the compound according to different groups. A special input on the role of Mary in the History of Salvation is followed by a candle procession and a Rosary with all Christians.
Centenary Launching Program
December 8th marks the first day of the Centenary Launching Programme. The day is dedicated to God the Father, with a solemn rededication of the church of Ave Maria and cultural activities in Rii Yubu. The evening features a communal celebration of reconciliation, reflecting on the presence of Mary and Christ in the current situation.
Celebrating the Life of Jesus
Day two of the Centenary Launching Programme, on December 9th, shifts focus to the life of Jesus. Various workshops, planning sessions for 2024, and tree-planting activities characterize the day. Mass with an emphasis on the environment, a night vigil, and performances by local artists round off the day.
Looking to the Future with the Holy Spirit
The third day of the Centenary Launching Program, on December 10th, revolves around the Holy Spirit. The day includes the launching mass of the Centenary, a final match of the Ave Maria Zereda Tournament, and a festive evening with local artists' performances.
Winding Up and New Beginnings
As the Centenary celebrations wind up on December 11th, the participants gather for a final breakfast before departing for Tombura. A mass and blessing of Fr. Gaka's grave mark the end of the event, symbolizing the sunset over Ave Maria and the dawn of a new beginning.
