Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Nairobi (Fides Service)- 11 students in 1997, 20 in 2000, 30 in 2005. This is the progression of Augustinian vocations in Kenya where Augustinians have been only been present for about a decade. In 1995 the then vice province of Nigeria decided to respond to the request of the then father general Miguel A. Orcatis to plant the Order in Kenya.
Several provinces joined the initiative offering generous help: besides the vice province of Nigeria, also the provinces of Ireland, Colombia, Canada, England and the vice province of Argentina gave a hand. With this help the Augustinian presence grew and when Congolese students arrived in 1999, the Augustinians of Kenya founded the Augustinian Vicariate of Congo.
Vocations flourished thanks to work of information and formation through seminars and meetings and continual contact with young Kenyans. Moreover students at Augustinian formation centres present introduce many future candidates.
The programme of initial formation was revised and more emphasis put on the Augustinian aspect of formation today. During course holidays Kenyan and Congolese students have the opportunity for experience and the Congolese learn English and Kiswahili and the Kenyans learn French.
“The most important message of the Augustinian presence in Kenya is the Augustinian charisma which has retained all its attractiveness for young people and is a powerful antidote to the corruption and indifference present in the world today” Fr. Denis Mason writes in the magazine OSA INTerativo issued by the Augustinian General House.
“The fact that Nigerians, Congolese and Kenyans work together is a clear message of unity of hearts in our communities following the wonderful example of St Augustine” says Fr. Mason. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides 4/4/2006 righe 32 parole 385)
