On Saturday, 7th February 2026, the Daughters of Our Lady of Fatima gathered in joy and thanksgiving at Rushoroza Mother House in Kabale to celebrate a remarkable milestone, the Golden Jubilee of Religious Life of Sister Mary Mukanyagenzi.
For 50 years, Sister Mary has faithfully dedicated her life to God and to the service of His people. Her journey of commitment, humility, and leadership was honored in a solemn Eucharistic celebration presided over by His Eminence Antoine Cardinal Kambanda of Rwanda. The Holy Mass was co-celebrated by the Bishop of Kabale Diocese, Rt. Rev. Callist Rubaramira, alongside numerous priests, religious sisters and brothers, and faithful from the dioceses of Kabale, Mbarara, Hoima, Kibungo, Butare, Kigali (Rwanda), and even Kenya.
In his homily, Bishop Rubaramira encouraged the faithful not to make excuses when God calls them to a mission. Drawing inspiration from the Blessed Virgin Mary, he emphasized the importance of humility, trust, and unwavering faith, especially during moments of weakness and difficulty. He described Sister Mary as a divine gift to the Banyatereza and to the Daughters of Our Lady of Fatima, a true shepherd and servant leader whose maternal care has strengthened many.
Cardinal Antoine Kambanda, in his message, highlighted the transformative power of education rooted in values. He praised Sister Mary as an educator not only in classrooms but in life itself, someone who has shaped hearts and minds across Uganda and Rwanda through her example, guidance, and devotion.
The celebration attracted distinguished guests, including Hon. Protazio (MP-elect for Ndorwa East), Hon. Mary Paula Turyahikayo (Woman MP-elect for Rukungiri District), and Hon. Eliab Naturinda Mporera (MP for Ndorwa West), who served as Guest of Honor. In his remarks, the Guest of Honor called for unity and solidarity as pillars for national development.
Mother Scholastica Kyobutungi, Superior General of the Daughters of Our Lady of Fatima, delivered a heartfelt tribute, describing Sister Mary as a caring mother, generous servant, and wise spiritual guide. She expressed deep gratitude to all who supported the celebration and acknowledged the presence and blessings of Church leadership and well-wishers.
In her message of thanksgiving, Sister Mary Mukanyagenzi humbly expressed appreciation to everyone who has journeyed with her from the beginning of her vocation to this golden milestone. The celebration was not only a commemoration of years served but a profound moment of gratitude, reflection, and renewed commitment to God’s mission.
The jubilee concluded with a symbolic tree-planting ceremony led by Cardinal Kambanda, a sign of growth, continuity, and the lasting legacy of a life dedicated to service.
