With great rejoicing the Association of the Sons of St. Pius of Pietrelcina, a new congregation of the Franciscan Family in Uganda dedicated to the formation of youth in Africa is ordaining their first two deacons on September 4, 2025. This is the next step for the candidates: Br. Brian Obbo and Br. David Onyango towards full priestly ordination within one year following more service in parishes. This is a great partnership with Bishop Sanctus Lino Wanok and the Lira Diocese that will bless the entire country.
With 77% of the population in Uganda under the age of 25 there is a great opportunity and responsibility for the Catholic Church to form the young generation well. This requires having more priests to provide the sacraments and catechizes to the youth. This work also needs resources. The priestly garb alone for these two young men including cassocks, albs, long sleeve clerical shirts, double colored stoles, cincture, dalmatic, shoes, and more is $900 each. Funds are also needed for their activities with the youth and the education costs for the next 8 young men currently in formation. This cohort alone is a blessing from the Lord! Donate Today! {Brian in photo above far right w/red colored shirt at YOUFRA Youth Centre.}
Kindly consider helping this new congregation start strong! We are seeking to raise $900 to cover half of the costs of these two young men who are giving their life to Christ and the service of his Church. Additional funds beyond this goal will be used to help in the formation of the next cohort of 4 candidates. Following an initial 3-6 months of formation the candidates begin their 3 years of university training in philosophy. They join 2 other candidates studying theology. This new congregation is being founded in Uganda by Sr. Margaret Awor, L.S.O.S.F., National Director of YOUFRA, and Fr. Michael Onyango, S.S.A. The hope is to have many more priests available to assist with Mass, confessions, catechises, and formation of the youth in Uganda and throughout East Africa. Donate Today!
{Photos from Youth Advent Retreat in Soroti Diocese 2022.} Donate Today!
