A home for peace

Inauguration of the "Queen of Confidence Center" in Gikungu

La casa en la mañana de la bendición, 20 de mayo The house in the morning of the blessing, May 20 Das Haus am Morgen der Einweihung, 20. Mai
Tamborileros Drummers Trommler
Da nos la paz... Give us peace... Gib uns deinen Frieden...
Imagenes para la casa MTA pictures for the house MTA-Bilder für das Friedenszentrum
Capital de gracias Capital of grace Gnadenkapital Fotos: Seitzer © 2006 Fotoalbum – album de fotos –photo album

BURUNDI, Father Paul Zingg. The date the Sisters of Mary chose for the inauguration of the "Queen of Confidence Center" was extremely symbolic: May 20^th, anniversary of Father Kentenich’s return from Dachau in 1945. Everything was magnificently prepared for the great day, with the majority of the construction almost finished and the planning, spiritual as well as organizational, in good hands - those of the sisters.

Many pilgrims had already gathered when the tambourine players, dressed in their usual costumes, began to play their instruments at 9:00 a.m. It was a beautiful day, both inside and outside the Shrine. At 10:00 a.m. the procession began, led by the altar boys and novices, followed by 18 priests, the Nuncio and the diocesan bishop, Monsignor Evariste Ngoyagoye. Father Deogratias was waiting for them in the Shrine; he welcomed them and all the faithful. The bishop blessed several pictures of the MTA for the new house. A multitude of pilgrims began the procession toward the Center. The builder, Mr. Houben, presented the keys to the regional superior, Sister Pia Marit, in front of the yet unopened doors. She passed them to the bishop who presided over the solemn opening. The interior of the house was gaily decorated with flags. The ecclesiastic blessing followed under a brilliant sun. The bishop and the priest went through the four large buildings before gathering again in the park next to the flagpoles, where the flag from Burundi was already waving. The Vatican and Schoenstatt flags were symbolically hoisted as the hymn of the Schoenstatt Family was intoned.

He who trusts, has everything

Next the procession went toward the Pilgrims Church, where a solemn Eucharist was celebrated accompanied by two youth choirs and a delightful group of dancers. Sister Bernita’s testimony was impressive. She is the only survivor of the three pioneer sisters from the founding period. She explained the significance the new center's name in the context of this historic foundation, for which she gave testimony, above all, through concrete experiences of confidence – confidence that found its full expression in the Shrine of Mutumba. "He who trusts, has everything", said Sister Bernita, who was a superior for many years, citing Father Kentenich. Before the blessing, the Apostolic Nuncio transmitted a greeting and a special blessing sent by the Holy Father for this occasion.

At the service of a culture of peace

The celebration closed with a reception in the Center for the two hundred invited guests. The large hall was worthy of the meal - lavishly festive. The majority of the guests were Schoenstatters: among them, the new superior general of the Brothers of Mary, Mr. Dietger Kuller, and a small delegation from Butare, Rwanda. The regional superior, Sister Pia Marit, greeted the guests at the end of the meal, briefly explaining the importance of the Center in serving the Movement and the Church, going beyond the borders of the country. The main goal is the formation of youth and families toward a culture of peace.

Between two songs sung by the novices, Father Paul Zingg, speaking for the Schoenstatt Fathers and the National Council, expressed gratitude to the sisters for the drive they had to make this magnificent work a reality. He offered a chalice with a large paten as a gift, a symbolic expression of the presence of the Schoenstatt Fathers and Priests at this Center and of their willingness to work jointly in service to the Movement and of the Church. The ex-minister, Mr. Denis, cordially expressed gratitude for the invitation and he made sure to ask for a little more beer. The Bishop said the closing words. As he had already mentioned in his homily, he praised the efforts manifested in the construction of this house, hoping that this center would signify, by its attachment with the Shrine, a great blessing for the Church and for the country.

Permanent confidence

In the time that is approaching, the dry season, Saint Peter organized the weather in a masterful manner: it was a sunny day with some passing clouds and two thunderstorms. The strong rain fell over the roof the church during the readings of the Holy Mass, and the second one fell during the meal. A sign of abundant blessings! At table, during the meal, the Nuncio asked: where did the sisters find the strength to organize and enliven this Center? Surely a great challenge will be faced in the future and it is a permanent invitation to trust: Mhc! (Mater Habeit curam) the Blessed Mother will take care.

Translation: Celina Garza, Harlingen/TX, USA / Vanya Gobbi, Canada