Fr. John Bosco
I grew up in a family that faced financial challenges, but I acknowledge that my parents worked hard to provide for us through their jobs and a small subsistence farm that supplied our food. My mother was a teacher and later became the headmistress of several government-grade schools over the year, while my father served as a police constable. Despite their dedication, their modest earnings made it challenging to sustain our family.
I entered the seminary at the age of thirteen, but by the time I was in grade seven, my parents found it increasingly difficult to manage the school fees. Following the advice of the seminary rector, I temporarily left Nswanjere Junior Seminary for two terms. I returned only at the end of primary seven to sit for my Primary Leaving Examination (PLE). This break was necessary due to my family’s financial constraints.
Initially, I believed that my journey in seminary formation had stopped. However, upon receiving my PLE results, the rector encouraged my parents to enroll me in Sacred Heart Seminary, Mubende, where tuition costs were more feasible. Even then, I required additional assistance to cover the expenses. This support came from Msgr. Joseph Obunga, who generously agreed to pay half of my tuition each term. His contribution was just the beginning of the many acts of kindness I received from relatives, friends, and even strangers, all of whom played crucial roles in my journey toward becoming a priest. I owe much of who I am today to God’s grace and the generosity of these individuals. To God be the glory.
Besides the faith, discipline, and kindness my parents instilled in me, I have two stories that have significantly influenced me and my ministry: the parable of the Good Samaritan, where Jesus instructs us to “Go and do likewise” (Luke 10:25-37), and the story of my patron, Saint Don Bosco. Many may not see parallels between their lives and those of their patron saints. Still, I resonate deeply with Don Bosco’s humble beginnings and his commitment to the priesthood, faith, education, and helping vulnerable youths of his time. I aspire to follow in his footsteps and emulate the generosity of those who supported me during my seminary journey.
In 2010, I took a step further in giving back to my community by founding Schoolmate, an organization dedicated to providing scholarships for disadvantaged students and promoting sports to pass on the Catholic Values I have learned from Christ and my patron Saint. Through this initiative, I aim to contribute to the transformation of our society and positively impact the lives of others.
“You all know my dream and ambition, but realizing this dream is impossible without help. However, if you have the courage to support me, we can create a miracle together. By working together, our Lady will guide us…my hope goes beyond us.” – Don Bosco