Celebration of the Feast of St. Gabriel at Walacha, Ethiopia

A shared calling, a common mission, an unbreakable bond

On the 29th of December, St. Gabriel Parish in Walacha was a core of joy and spiritual celebration as sisters from Sadama and Dubbo joined our sisters in Walacha & the parishioners to honor their Patron Saint, Gabriel. This special occasion brought people together to pay tribute to the Archangel Gabriel, a revered figure in the our Catholic faith.

The event was made even more special with the presence of invited guests from Dubbo and Areka. Among these guests were Fr. Demise Guraro, O.F.M. Cap, the priest in charge of our Lady of Lourdes in Dubbo, and Deacon Tilahun Honja, one of our committed Cabrini lay missionaries (CLM). The highlight of the celebration was the Holy Mass, led by the main celebrant, Fr. Demise. The Mass commenced with the first reading done by Kidane Gebre, another dedicated CLM who belongs to St. Gabriel Parish, the second reading was done by another Parishioner and Deacon Tilahun then read the Gospel.

Fr. Demise delivered a moving homily that emphasized the vital role of the archangels in the life of our Catholic Church. He elaborated on how God sent the Archangel Gabriel to Mary to announce the birth of Jesus, our Savior, tying the message to the significance of the Feast of St. Gabriel. His words resonated with the congregation, reinforcing their faith and devotion.

Following the Holy Mass, the congregation participated in a Eucharistic procession around the church premises. This sacred walk served as a powerful expression of faith and community.

The celebration concluded with a communal lunch, offering a chance for sharing a meal and reflecting on the day's events. As the day came to an end, attendees departed with a renewed sense of spiritual fulfillment and gratitude for the opportunity to honor St. Gabriel together.