“Pray, Hope, and Don’t Worry”

Jumuiya of St. Pio celebrated its feast day on Saturday 26 September after a 9 day Novena. The day begun with short Recollection led ny Fr. Damas Missanga, S.J., on the theme of “Pray, Hope, and Don’t Worry” – A Day of Renewal for Families

1. The Life and Spirituality of St. Padre Pio: Families were inspired by the humble friar’s profound trust in God, his embrace of suffering, and his famous motto to “Pray, hope, and don’t worry,” learning to bring their own worries to the Lord.
2. SCC Life and Family Responsibilities: The community reflected on their call to be the “Church in the neighbourhood,” supporting one another in prayer and need, while strengthening the family as the primary place where faith is lived and passed on.
3. Love and Reconciliation in the Family: Focusing on the necessity of forgiveness, the meditation encouraged families to heal wounds and seek peace, following the example of Padre Pio, the great minister of God’s mercy.

The St. Padre Pio Small Christian Community (SCC) at St. Charles Lwanga Catholic Parish, Muyeye, held a spiritually enriching 2-hour recollection for its member families. Themed “Pray, Hope, and Don’t Worry – Walking Together as Families in the Footsteps of St. Padre Pio,” the event was a sacred time for reflection, reconciliation, and renewal.

The event also included a silent Examination of Conscience, the praying of the Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary, and a powerful period of Eucharistic Adoration and Benediction.

The recollection concluded with families making concrete resolutions to pray the Rosary together, seek reconciliation, and participate more actively in the SCC. It was a grace-filled reminder that, as a community of families, they are not alone on their journey to holiness.

Let us continue to pray for our families, that they may be united in love and strengthened in faith, following the intercession of St. Padre Pio and the inspiring courage of St. Charles Lwanga.