Maryknoll Missionaries celebrate centenary of foundation

(July 23, 2011) Apostolic Nuncio to Kenya, Archbishop Alain Paul Lebeaupin has commended the early Maryknoll missionaries to Africa for their pastoral zeal. He said through their commitment, the continent opened up for spiritual and human development. The Nuncio, presiding at the Eucharistic celebration at the Maryknoll House, Nairobi on July 16, cited the Maryknoll Society for special mention on the early missionary work among the local people in Africa. The members of the Society, which comprise Fathers, Brothers, Sisters, Lay Missioners, Affiliates and Volunteers, are currently working in the five African countries, namely: Kenya, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Sudan, and Namibia. As the Society marks its 65 years of pastoral work in Africa this year, 2011, it is also marking its centenary of its pastoral service, globally. Currently, there are 78 Maryknoll missionaries serving in Africa: priests and brothers, of whom eleven serve in Kenya. In addition, there are 33 Maryknoll Sisters in Africa and 15 Maryknoll Lay Missionaries.