By Sr. Christine Marie Mugume, Treasurer, DARVA
On 21 February 2026, the Diocesan and Religious Vocation Animators (DARVA) began their journey from Kampala to Moroto for a week-long Vocation Animation Program.
The team composed of religious men and women from fifteen congregations: the Sisters of Notre Dame, Missionaries of Africa, Missionary Sisters of Our Lady of Africa, Missionary Sisters of the Holy Rosary, Sisters of Our Lady of Good Counsel, Religious of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus of Moyo, Marian Brothers, Mill Hill Fathers, Congregation of the Holy Cross, Holy Cross Sisters, Society of Jesus, Medical Missionaries of Mary, Sisters of the Cross of Chavanod, and Sisters Servants of the Holy Spirit
The mission begun with the visit at the Cathedral Parish where the members joined in Mass with Rt. Rev. Damiano Giulio Guzzetti, M.C.C.I., Bishop of the Diocese of Moroto who warmly welcomed them in the diocese, introduced them to the faithful and gave them his blessing. Bishop Damian expressed gratitude for the team’s collaboration in guiding young people toward responsible Christian lives and encouraged them to continue promoting authentic vocations.
In the days that followed, DARVA visited eight secondary schools: Katekile Seed, Moroto High, Loroo Seed, Pokot in Amudat, Nadunget, Moroto Parents, Lorengedwat, and Kangole Girls. Each visit was marked by attentive listening, open dialogue, and sincere engagement from the students. The team faced long travel distances between institutions, unusually cold weather, limited time due to school schedules, and large numbers of students seeking individual attention. Despite these difficulties, the program was fruitful and warmly received. In several places, the team experienced generous hospitality, including shared meals that expressed appreciation and solidarity.
In every school, a moderator introduced the purpose of the visit and explained the meaning and various forms of vocation. The team presented priesthood, both missionary and diocesan, religious life as sisters and brothers, marriage, and lay missionary or celibate life as authentic paths of Christian commitment. Each congregation shared its identity, charism, formation process, areas of ministry, and the steps required for joining.
The students asked several questions for clarification which reflected their genuine discernment and a desire for clarity. They inquired about academic qualifications, age requirements, duration of formation, financial obligations, and community expectations. Some asked whether they could retain personal property, receive payment, or join if they came from different religious backgrounds, complex family situations, or lived with chronic illness. Members of DARVA responded patiently and thoughtfully, offering guidance and further explanations where needed.
Though diverse in charisms and apostolates, they were united in their commitment to promote vocations and to help young people understand that vocation is a call from God and mission is the faithful response to that call.
As the week concluded, DARVA recognized that the animation had strengthened not only the students but also the team itself. The experience deepened unity among the vocation animators and strengthened collaboration with diocesan clergy. The mission to Moroto was more than a series of institutional visits; it was a pastoral outreach aimed at awakening hearts to God’s call and encouraging courageous responses to that call.
This is so encouraging
Amen,
Thank you.