July 1, 2024……………..
By Sr. Sylvia Atim, MSMMC,
Religious Sisters Communicators’ Foundation (RSCF)Uganda
The Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation program on Radio Maria, organized by the Association of the Religious in Uganda(ARU), has broken impact records. The program’s popularity led to a listener’s camp on Saturday, June 29th 2024 at Radio Maria premises, where fans met with the producer, presenters and fellow listeners. Fr Raymond the Director of Radio Maria Kampala supported the initiative and personally promoted the event.
Sr Lilly Driciru MSMMC, the team leader, attributed the program’s success to the problem tree analysis approach, which tackles human trafficking by addressing its roots in the families. The listener’s camp drew participants from various walks of life, with some sharings of emotional testimonies about their experiences.
Asked how she combined the radio program, family ministry and team work, Sr. Lilly explained, “The use of mass media for evangelization by Missionary Sisters of Mary Mother of the Church motivates me. Coupled with the charism about all-consuming love of Christ for his people and our spirituality of ‘motherhood’ plays a key role in our interactions with the people we serve. Thus, making all possible.”
Sr. Lilly also added that the challenge of rescuing the victims of trafficking has become complex and very demanding in all ways, therefore, family ministry is key in prevention of trafficking in persons. Guided discussions were held in groups segmented by age, marital status and cleric and consecrated life. The event focused on topics like ideal families, marriage, finding suitable partners, and prioritizing studies.
Mr. Kiboya Martin, representing Radio Maria, expressed joy at the program’s impact and collaboration with the organizing team. This ended with a decision to hold monthly prayers, listening sessions for the organizing team and bi-monthly meetings for the larger group. The existing network would be strengthened to draw in more members, potentially collaborating with the existing church groups. The event ended with Holy Mass at 5:00PM.
