On 27 November, the Karungu community came together to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Fr Emilio’s ordination to the priesthood.
The day also marked the First Sunday of Advent, a significant moment in the Christian calendar: a time of anticipation, reflection and spiritual renewal as we prepare to celebrate the birth of our Lord at Christmas.
The coincidence of these two special occasions brought the community even closer together, with everyone gathering at 10 a.m. for Holy Mass at St Camillus Mission Hospital.
The Camillian priests Fr John, Fr Patrick, Fr Dominic and Fr Paolo were all present. Guests had travelled considerable distances to attend the celebration, including Deacon Pius, who arrived from Nairobi that very morning as a representative of the Camillian Delegation. Also in attendance were the Sisters of Ivrea from Macalder and the Sisters of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Cremona from the Kiranda mission.
The Mayor of Karungu joined the celebrations, expressing his gratitude for Fr Emilio’s many years of dedicated service.
Much to Fr Emilio’s surprise and delight, two former students of the Dala Kiye Centre had travelled all the way from Nairobi to be there: John, now a history and religious education teacher, and Philip, who teaches English literature at international schools.
Italian volunteers Emma D’Andrea and Gaia Cagnacci were also present, alongside the 60 children from the Dala Kiye Centre and several members of staff from St Camillus Mission Hospital.
After everyone had gathered and exchanged greetings, Holy Mass began. At the altar, Fr Emilio carried out his priestly ministry with profound devotion. The congregation listened attentively, while the children looked on at him with affection.
The Prayers of the Faithful were particularly moving, bringing the community together in thanksgiving to God and in recognition of Fr Emilio’s tireless dedication to his missionary work.
The Eucharist was concelebrated by all five priests, with Fr Emilio presiding, bringing the entire community together as one in faith.
At the end of Mass, there was an opportunity for everyone to pay tribute to Fr Emilio and celebrate this special occasion together. The children of Dala Kiye performed traditional dances to the beat of drums, while guests presented Fr Emilio with their gifts.
Following Mass and the expressions of gratitude, everyone gathered in the Community Hall to share a meal.
Fr Emilio was deeply touched by the gifts, blessings and affection he received from so many people dear to him.
The former Dala Kiye students had also arranged for a special cake to be made, decorated with photographs depicting moments from Fr Emilio’s life. What a wonderful surprise!
Fr Emilio’s dedication and achievements over the years have been nothing short of extraordinary.
Starting with virtually nothing, and without knowing exactly where God’s will would lead him, he gradually found his path.
His days never seem to truly end. Even in the evening, despite his exhaustion, Fr Emilio’s thoughts remain with the people around him, the mission and how best to guide it forward, without wasting…
