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Reconstruction of Saint Joseph Parish in Yangambo: A Call for Solidarity

guybo2001

Updated: Jul 25, 2024

I. Detailed History of Saint Joseph Parish



A. Spiritual and Cultural Origins

In the heart of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, within the Tshuapa province, lies Yangambo, a place steeped in diverse traditional beliefs. Before the arrival of European missionaries, the inhabitants worshiped local deities such as Iyefesunga, the god of the Lolingo people, Isek'asunga, revered by the Bosaka, and Lokwa’a Nkino, the protector of the Nkole. Among these deities, Njakomba and Mbombiyana were considered supreme creators, governing day and night.



B. The Arrival of Christianity

Evangelization began with the arrival of Trappist missionaries in 1895, who established their first mission in Bamanya at Coquilhatville (now Mbandaka). These efforts were directed under the auspices of the Apostolic Prefecture of Coquilhatville and the Apostolic Vicariate of Coquilhatville, gradually extending to the territory of Ikela and then Bokungu.


C. The Foundation of the Parish

Significant development in the region led to the establishment of the Diocese of Ikela in 1961, with Father Joseph Weigl consecrated as its first bishop. A few years later, in 1965, the diocese's seat moved to Bokungu, and in 1967, it was renamed the Diocese of Bokungu-Ikela. During this period, the need to create a parish in Yangambo became evident to strengthen the region's autonomy by separating it from Yalifafu.


In 1967, the Parish of the Sacred Heart of Jesus was established, later renamed Saint Joseph Parish of Yangambo by Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu, the current Archbishop of Kinshasa and advisor to the Pope. The first priest, Father Alfred Hagen, was appointed to this new parish.


D. The Contribution of the Local Community

The construction of the parish was significantly influenced by the traditional authority of the Nkole Chieftaincy, Chief Nkombe Bofola. He helped establish the parish's first wooden pillars, demonstrating a unique blend of local traditions and Christian influences.



II. Justification for the Reconstruction Project


A. Deterioration of Infrastructure

Over time, the original structure of the parish, primarily built with local materials such as mud bricks and tile roofs, has sustained considerable damage. The walls, lacking robust foundations, are in ruins, and the roofs are severely damaged.



B. Isolation and Community Needs

Yangambo is isolated, with over 1000 km separating it from the Kinshasa capital, and lacking adequate road or air connections. The local community, primarily residents of thatched cottages, lacks the financial resources to undertake such work.


III. Conclusion and Call to Action


Faced with this urgency, Tshuapa Action Foundation plans to launch a broad fundraising campaign to reconstruct this vital parish. This call for global solidarity aims not only to restore a place of worship but also to preserve a vital center for faith and community in Yangambo.


Stay tuned for more information on how to contribute to this significant project, a symbol of unity and resilience across generations. Together, let's help restore Saint Joseph Parish of Yangambo to its central role in the spiritual and social life of its faithful.

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