Tuka Christo Holy Cross Shrine Nyengiri, the Newest Shrine in the Catholic Diocese of Tombura – Yambio Erected

Bishop Eduardo Hiiboro Kussala, the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Tombura Yambio on 16th April 2023, the Divine Mercy Sunday, joined the faithful Christians of St. Luke Parish Nyengiri for the Eucharist celebration. During the celebration, the prelate erected a shrine of the Holy Cross.

According to Bishop Kussala, the dream of having the shrine of the Holy Cross in Nyengiri was as a result of his visit to Nyengiri in 2003.

“The dream of the Shrine of the Holy Cross in Nyengiri is of several years ago. I first visited Nyengiri in 2003, I was impressed by the height and beauty of Bario Rocky Mountain and told Rev. Fr. Martin Sakondo that, it would be great if we have a cross on this mountain and dedicate it to Christ the Creator”, the bishop explained.

He continued, “Bario Rocky Mountain of Nyengiri is a story of people coming together to create something greater than themselves. It is a pioneer story in this area typical of our country. It is also the Christian’s story of searching for God. In the Bible there are many stories of special places being honored because the people had encountered God. These places are special not because of human effort, but because of the presence of the Divine”.

In his speech, he underscored that “the significant meaning of every shrine is to be a reminder in the faith of the salvific work of the Lord”.

Bishop noted that he has seen the need for a lonely place for prayers, retreat, recollection, devotions, holy gathering, picnic and leisure, he envisioned a place that would call people to a greater devotion to God the true source of life.

Bishop Kussala named and blessed the corner “Bishop’s stone and the cross; “TUKA KRISTO BARIO”. Tuka in Pazande means Shrine, a place sacred, place set aside for specific sacrifices, unity of the family, power house, etc.

In his homily, Bishop Hiiboro advised young people to ask God to be their guide in life. Always to be united with Jesus, to look and embrace the Cross of Christ, since behind any cross there is life, as their inspiration to draw closer to Christ

He acknowledged that the Parish newest shrine in Nyengiri Ezo county will continue to serve the needs of His pilgrim people as they search for spiritual growth and wholeness on their pilgrimage to Him.

If you wish to help the Shrine with your time, talent or treasure contact Parish Priest of St. Luke de Evangelist Rev. Fr. Justin Atoroba +21191794858 or +211927397004.