By Fr. Martin Jere, Mccj.
Borrowing the words of my elder brother Geoffrey, who remarked at my ordination, “You are a true definition of a dream come true,” I reflect on my journey to priesthood. Being ordained a priest by the Archbishop of Lusaka, Dr. Alick Banda, on August 4th 2024, marked a profound transition in my life, akin to the Biblical Passover. In this context, Passover symbolizes a significant decision from which there is no turning back.
Early Influences and Calling
From a young age, even before my parents passed away, I felt a deep calling to priesthood. Attending church with my father, though I didn’t understand the liturgy, I was mesmerized by the act of consecration. I sensed that I would one day partake in this sacred moment. My mother’s devotion to the Rosary and my sister Maureen’s nightly Bible stories further nurtured my faith and deepened my longing for a spiritual life.
Despite these early influences, life took a challenging turn after my parents’ passing. My brothers and I faced the harsh reality of adulthood at a tender age, relying on the modest legacy of a house and some funds for our education while we managed to find shelter and some financial support, we quickly learned that people often took advantage of our youth. Nonetheless, as we struggled to make ends meet, our hope in God remained steadfast. Through sheer determination and resilience, we completed secondary school, fortified by our unwavering faith.
A Journey of Vocation
Upon finishing school in 2009, I did not enter the seminary immediately; instead, I worked to support my family and prepare for the subjects I needed to retake. Balancing work and studies was demanding, yet I felt it was essential to contribute to my family’s welfare while pursuing my vocation. It was in this period of reflection that I began to discern my calling more clearly.
My vocation journey began in 2013 when I attended pre-postulancy in Malawi with the Comboni Missionaries. The decision to leave my job was fraught with uncertainty. I was caught in a dilemma: should I continue working or take a leap of faith into the unknown, much like Abraham stepping into a land he did not know?
One memorable Thursday, after a long day at work, I sought God’s guidance in the chapel. The calmness I felt during my prayers convinced me to pursue the priesthood. April 8th 2013, marked the beginning of this journey as I travelled to Malawi with Fr. Moises Gonzalez, the Comboni vocation promoter. The serenity I experienced in prayer accompanied me during the three months of pre-postulancy, igniting my love for the Comboni congregation and reinforcing my decision.
Formation and Growth
After pre-postulancy, I entered the postulancy phase in October 2013, a rigorous period of philosophical study that stretched my intellectual and spiritual limits. We transitioned from a seminary to an institute affiliated with the Catholic University of Malawi, earning degrees rather than diplomas. This transition required a significant adjustment, as we began to experience greater academic expectations and a more independent living environment.
The three years of postulancy were challenging yet enriching. It was not merely an academic endeavour but a time of profound personal growth. I learned to balance academics, prayer, social life, and pastoral service without losing sight of my spiritual and community commitments. This period was pivotal in developing my self-esteem and understanding of what it meant to be a Comboni Missionary.
Graduating on June 3rd 2016, was a moment of triumph, a culmination of years of hard work and dedication. I entered the novitiate in Nnamugongo, Uganda, in September 2016. This second stage of formation focused on internalizing my faith and deepening my spirituality. It was a transformative experience that involved moving from intellectual knowledge to heartfelt spirituality through prayer, meditation, and pastoral work.
During the novitiate, I developed a profound sense of belonging to the Comboni Missionaries. I could confidently say, “I am a Comboni Missionary inside and outside.” This conviction solidified my commitment to their mission and the core values of our congregation. On May 1st 2018, I took my first vows before the provincial superior of Malawi/Zambia, Rev. Dr. Edward Kanyike, an experience that deepened my resolve to serve God and the Church.
Theological Studies in Peru
After the novitiate, I embarked on theological studies in Lima, Peru-a land I had never imagined visiting. My journey began with visa processing in South Africa, where I encountered the language barrier and cultural differences. I was caught off guard when, while waiting for my flight in Brazil, I missed my connection due to my ignorance of Portuguese. This unexpected turn of events turned into an opportunity for exploration, as I was rerouted through Colombia before arriving in Peru.
On August 9, 2018, I landed at Jorge Chaves International Airport, Lima, where I was warmly welcomed by the community superior, Padre Tomas Herreros. The first Spanish word I heard was “sí,” a simple yet profound introduction to a new language and culture. Embracing the challenge of learning Spanish was enriching, especially as I delved into theological studies in that language.
Theological education in Peru offered a unique perspective, particularly in the context of Liberation Theology, which emphasizes social justice and the plight of the marginalized. This approach resonated deeply with me, as I had witnessed the struggles of disadvantaged communities throughout my life. Studying in this context was both a challenge and a blessing, shaping my understanding of faith in action and the importance of being involved with the vulnerable.
Every stage of my formation contributed to my growth and identity as a Comboni Missionary Priest. I made my final vows on February 9, 2024, before Provincial Superior of Malawi/Zambia Fr. Michael Mumba, solidifying my commitment to the Comboni Missionaries. The next day, I was ordained a deacon at Lirangwe Parish in Blantyre by Archbishop Luke Thomas Msusa, marking another milestone in my spiritual journey.
Reflecting on my path to priesthood, I recognize the myriad experiences that have shaped who I am today. The journey has not always been easy, but it has been rich with lessons, growth, and divine guidance. Each challenge has strengthened my faith and deepened my commitment to serving God and the Church.
As I embrace my role as a priest, I carry with me the memories of my family’s influence, the trials of my youth, the rigor of my formation, and the diverse experiences that have enriched my understanding of ministry. I am grateful for the support of my community and the opportunities that have allowed me to fulfil my vocation.
In this new chapter of my life, I remain dedicated to serving the local population and addressing their needs, embodying the values of the Comboni Missionaries. My priestly journey is not just a personal accomplishment; it is a testament to the grace of God and the commitment of many who have walked alongside me. I look forward to the path ahead, ready to embrace the challenges and joys that come with my calling as a Comboni Missionary Priest.
