During our visit to the Father Damien community, from 2 to 5 April 2026, those of us who actively participate and work alongside our brothers and sisters at St Francis Xavier Parish experienced Holy Week deeply amongst the Congolese people. Each celebration was carefully prepared, enriched with songs and dances that reflect the faith of a people who, amidst suffering, place their complete trust in God. These celebrations were a true testimony to the presence of the Living God and to the communion and solidarity that strengthen community life.
On Sunday 5 April, the Sacred Hearts communities in the Congo gathered to celebrate Easter together with brothers, sisters and lay members of the SS.CC. Secular Branch. The preparation for this celebration was led by the community of the ‘Enriqueta Aymer’ novitiate. It was a gathering marked by fraternity, shared joy and a profound experience of the Paschal Mystery.
From 6 to 8 April 2026, we carried out the canonical visit to the mountain community of Nzo ya Ngemba, situated on the outskirts of Kinshasa. Here, the sisters run the Aymer Centre, which comprises a nursery school, a primary school and training workshops for women. Furthermore, together with the brothers, they run the Father Damien secondary school, a concrete sign of the shared mission and joint work between brothers and sisters. They also provide a joint parish ministry.
Holy Week and the visits undertaken have been an expression of faith lived out in community, of a constant commitment to education and human development, and of the hope that is renewed in every celebration.
04/13/2026