A Pastoral Visit of Hope and Progress: Inauguration of St. Kizito Rupert Primary School

A Pastoral Visit of Hope and Progress: Inauguration of St. Kizito Rupert Primary School

On the 19th of April, Bishop Peter Paul Saldanha of the Diocese of Mangalore arrived in Tanzania for an official pastoral visit to the mission. He was warmly welcomed and accompanied by Msgr. Maxim Noronha, Vicar General of the Diocese, and Rev. Rupesh Madtha, editor of Rakno weekly. Their visit marked a significant moment of spiritual encouragement and pastoral engagement for the local Christian community. During his stay, Bishop Saldanha visited various sectors of the mission, taking time to understand the needs and aspirations of the people, while appreciating the ongoing efforts in evangelization and development.

A major highlight of the visit took place on the 23rd of April with the inauguration of two important educational initiatives: the newly established St. Kizito Rupert Primary School in Kifaru and the Advanced Level section at St. Joseph’s Science Secondary School. The inauguration of St. Kizito Rupert Primary School was a momentous occasion filled with joy and gratitude. Bishop Saldanha officially opened the school by hoisting the school flag, symbolizing a new beginning for the community’s educational journey. Marilena Lingua, a key donor, cut the ribbon, while Bishop Rogath Kimario of the Diocese of Same offered a heartfelt blessing over the school, its staff, and students.

The celebration marked a new chapter in the community’s dedication to holistic education. St. Kizito Rupert Primary School, managed by the Society of Mangalore Africa Mission (SMAM), emerged from the RUPERT Children's Home and now serves over 170 students in Classes IV to VII. It stands as a beacon of hope, collaboration, and shared vision for the children of Kifaru and the surrounding areas.

On the 25th of April, Bishop Saldanha also joined the faithful in commemorating the 10th anniversary of Laudato Si’, the encyclical by Pope Francis on care for our common home. His visit concluded with deep appreciation and renewed commitment to mission work, and he was scheduled to return to Mangalore on the 27th of May. 

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