The Mannya Story
I am privileged to be sharing with you the story of how we became involved with a very special community in Mannya and providing you with a brief overview on what has been achieved thus far and then finally, what we need from you.
The story began in 1989 when David Butler, one of our parishioner’s, established a relationship between the Parish of St Bernard’s and the Mannya Parish in Uganda. Since then, St Luke’s Parish in Mannya, has realised the increasing demand for its services amongst many disadvantaged communities. The parish currently has a total of 8000 parishioners and 545 school pupils.
St Bernard’s Parish has been committed to our ‘sister’ parish since then, focusing on pastoral care, which embraces both the spiritual growth of the people and their physical well-being. This commitment benefits both donors and recipients.
So, Why Are We Helping Mannya?
The St Bernard's Parish Mission statement reads: St Bernard’s Parish promotes the church’s mission of living and communicating the love and values of Christ in the world around us. So, in other words, the communication of love and values knows no geographical boundaries, and this extends all the way to Uganda in Africa.
Our parish is involved in something purposeful here; our actions have brought great rewards by improving the quality of life for the local community and possibly saving lives.
There have been decades of Action: Where Was the Money Invested?
A few initiatives where the funds have been invested include:
Building a new church
Establishing a farm
Beehives
Income-generating accommodation units
Solar power
Combustion stoves
Transport
Locally grown food
Coffee processing factory
Health centre
Supporting schools
Sponsoring students
Multipurpose parish hall
And the list goes on…
I would like to share with you a couple of impactful stories that involve a few of the initiatives that over the years, our parish of St Bernard's has mainly focused on:
Health Centre: Since its construction, thousands of people, including Fr Emma, the parish priest, have received medical treatment. You have saved lives; you should all be proud of such positive impact and deserve a round of applause.
Medical Outreach: A group of seven doctors and interns, led by Dr. Conor McDonald, visit the Mannya Health Centre annually for two weeks in December to assist with outreach work, vaccinations, and health issues within the community.
Coffee Processing Factory: Fr Emma reports that the coffee venture is progressing well, with more local farmers starting to grow coffee. This has lifted the hopes of many people in Mannya; hopes for a better future.
Education Sponsorship: We are pleased to inform you all that 11 primary students and 13 secondary school students are being sponsored by 20 parishioners. Education is invaluable in shaping the future of a successful and safe community. With your assistance, these children have been taken off the streets and given a great opportunity to pursue a better future. They could become the next doctors, engineers, or leaders who make a difference in the world. We thank those parishioners who have generously sponsored children’s education in 2023 and 2024.
Multi-Purpose Parish Hall: The construction is progressing well. It will contain two offices for the parish leadership team, a store, a washroom and the hall. Community gatherings are usually held outside under a tree. The parish hall will be used for various activities, including Parish council meetings, Sunday school gatherings, Catholic education events, community meetings, youth seminars, retreats, wedding celebrations, and parish social gatherings. St Bernard’s Parish has contributed $35,000 towards the total cost, which is estimated to be around $44,000. Our contributions have funded the foundation, slab, erection of the brick walls, roofing, windows, doors and some finishing work. Fundraising is continuing for this project.
So, What Are We Asking For?
There will be a special ‘Mannya collection’ in October for contributions to complete the Parish Hall project. Your donations will make a significant difference. In the meantime, if you wish to contribute to the Hall project, bank details are included on the last page of the parish bulletin. Our main focus at this stage, is to complete the Parish Hall. To assist in this, we need to raise $2000.
Additionally, you can sponsor a child and help secure their education for the following school year.
A Final Thought
Imagine the profound impact you can have on someone’s life. Your support can transform someone’s future, uplift an entire community, and create a ripple effect of positive change. As we journey together in this mission, remember that the rewards are immeasurable. There is no greater joy than knowing you have made a tangible difference in someone’s life.
By contributing, you are not just donating; you are investing in hope, dreams, and a brighter future for the people of Mannya. Be proud of the incredible change you are fostering. Together, we can build a legacy of love, compassion, and empowerment.
Thank you for your generosity, your kindness, and your unwavering support. Let’s continue to make a difference, one life at a time.
And finally, thank you from Fr. Emma.