Origins

The Mabatini Parish originated as one of the seven outstations under the Bugando Parish. In 1964, Christians began gathering for prayers at the home of Elder Petro Bundala, under the leadership of Charles Mapembe. In 1969, the group acquired land from a local resident, Yacob, where they built a mud outstation under Bishop Renatus Butibubage and Parish Priest Father Yakobo Hoosdergt.

In 1994, the believers constructed a more permanent outstation with their own labor and support from donors. That same year, they requested Holy Mass services at the outstation, which began with the first celebration on the Feast of the Body and Blood of Christ in June 1994. Father Jimmy Eble, a Maryknoll missionary, played a key role in the outstation's journey toward becoming a parish. In January 2001, Father Jimmy was officially appointed as the guardian of the Mabatini outstation by Father Tryphone Magafu, the Parish Priest of Bugando.

Through Father Jimmy’s leadership and collaboration with Archbishop Anthony Petro Mayala, the Maryknoll organization, and the community, the Mabatini outstation evolved into a parish. After engaging with local communities and clergy regarding parish boundaries and development plans, Archbishop Mayala formally approved the establishment of Mabatini Parish.

Announcement and Establishment of the Parish

In 2002, Archbishop Anthony Petro Mayala declared Mabatini a new parish and entrusted it to Father Jimmy Eble. The parish was officially established on Sunday, September 12, 2004, under the patronage of Christ, commemorating the Feast of the Transfiguration (Kung'ara). Archbishop Mayala emphasized that August 6 should be celebrated annually as the parish’s feast day.

Elections were held to form the Lay Council at the parish level, with the following leaders elected:

  • Chairman: Renatus Manyama
  • Vice Chairman: Pius Joseph
  • Secretary: Adam Kazungu
  • Assistant Secretary: Joseph Mahega
  • Treasurer: Happy Douglas

Evangelization and Spiritual Services

Since its establishment, Mabatini Parish has been committed to evangelization and spiritual growth. Key milestones include:

  • Masses: Two Sunday Masses and daily weekday Masses are celebrated. Mass is also conducted at the St. Jude Thaddeus outstation in Bethlehem. The parish holds adoration of the Blessed Sacrament every Thursday at 11:00 PM.
  • Catechists: The parish is served by four catechists: Godwin Michael, Elias Philipo, Emmanuel Cosmas, and Domina Yusto.

Faith and Vocations

The parish has witnessed growth in faith, reflected in increased participation and contributions. However, challenges related to spiritual maturity remain.

The parish has produced four priests:

  • Father George Nzungu (2009)
  • Father Celestine Nyanda (2012)
  • Father Kelvin Mkama (2016)
  • Father Enock R. Mutegeki (2022)

Development Initiatives

Under Father Jimmy’s leadership and collaboration with donors and believers, significant infrastructure has been developed:

  • A large church with a capacity for 1,000 people
  • A priests’ residence
  • An administrative building
  • A grotto of the Virgin Mary
  • A storehouse

Additionally, land was allocated by the government in Buzuruga, where the St. Jude Thaddeus outstation has been established.

Lay Apostolate Groups

The parish hosts several active lay apostolate groups, including:

  • UWAKA
  • WAWATA
  • VIWAWA
  • The Sacred Heart of Jesus Society
  • Legion of Mary
  • Catholic Charismatic Renewal
  • Choirs: Queen of Peace Choir, St. Martin Choir, Uganda Martyrs Choir
  • Vocational groups
  • The Holy Childhood Society

Neighborhoods and Outstation

The parish comprises five neighborhoods:

  1. Kanaan Neighborhood
  2. Good Samaritan Neighborhood
  3. Zion Neighborhood
  4. Butibubage Neighborhood
  5. Maryknoll Neighborhood

Outstation: St. Jude Thaddeus - Bethlehem.

Achievements

  • Construction of a large church with a capacity of 1,000 people.
  • Relocation of residents within the parish area.
  • Establishment of the St. Jude Thaddeus - Bethlehem outstation.
  • Production of four priests.

Challenges

Ongoing difficulties in acquiring the parish land title.

This document highlights the rich history, achievements, and ongoing efforts of the Parish of Shining of Our Lord Jesus Christ - Mabatini to foster faith and community development.