“Indeed the grace of our Lord has been abundant, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.”
1st Letter to Timothy, Chapter 1 Verse 14
In devoted service to the Mabatini region of Tanzania, Transfiguration is celebrating 15 years of evangelization. Here, practicing the Gospel values of caring and compassion are part of everyday life.
“We say, ‘Kristo anaishi hapa Mabatini,’ ”says Maryknoll Father Lam Hua (NOTE:pronounced hwah). Transfiguration’s pastor. “That means, ‘Christ is living in Mabatini!’ And he is. Our parishioners constantly transfigure Christ by caring for one another, sharing each other’s joys and difficulties, and celebrating the Sacraments. We are one family in the Lord,” says Father Lam (NOTE: pronounced Lahm).
Transfiguration began as a small mission under its founder, Maryknoll Father James E. Eble. Over the past 15 years the parish grew as more people left rural areas and migrated to the city. Today, Father Lam serves with the steady support of his assistant pastor, Father John W. Eybel (NOTE: pronounced eye-bl).
Father Lam and Father John call Transfiguration a healing ministry. If you haven’t already read the story of Transfiguration in the July/August edition of Maryknoll Magazine, I encourage you to do so! Healing for the soul is oh, so evident at Sunday Mass, at charismatic celebrations, and in Transfiguration’s small Christian communities.
The parish’s public health program is a lifeline for families dealing with illness. Children with disabilities receive therapy on site and at home. Dental and vision clinics provide free or low-cost screenings. And a program that teaches health education is now available in six primary schools.
Friend, Transfiguration Parish is more than a sign that Christ lives among us. It’s a tribute to your prayers and gifts that in the words of Paul to Timothy have made God’s grace flow abundantly. Thank you for Transfiguration’s first 15 years. You have blessed us and all the people of God.
Sincerely yours in Christ,
Father Raymond J. Finch
Prayer for 24th Sunday in Ordinary Time
God of the seed and harvest
You bless the sower and reaper
that all might enjoy the fruits
of their labors of love.
So too with those who work
in fields afar spreading Your word,
one sows, another reaps,
yet both rejoice to see Your people
gathered together for love of You.
Bless all peoples and missioners
around the world as they strive
to build the City of God within
the reign of our Lord Jesus Christ
where all might find mercy, love,
healing, and forgiveness.
Send more workers into Your harvest
that Your heavenly banquet hall
may one day be filled with sounds
and songs of Your children
singing Your praises forever.
Amen.
~ Maryknoll Father Joseph R. Veneroso
