From the village of Shadda, Father Fasika Asrat CM shares with us the story of a church that daily strives for a dignified life but never stops dreaming of a more just and humane world.

I don’t know if you’ve ever had the chance to marvel at the grandeur of the Chiesa de Il Gesù in Rome or the imposing Basilica of St. Peter. Stepping through their doors, it’s impossible not to catch your breath at so much beauty. The passage of time only adds more value to these masterpieces, revealing the delicacy of love for God in every artistic detail. However, I’ve had the privilege of contemplating a place even more beautiful and profoundly human, created by hands unfamiliar with painting or sculpture. Allow me to briefly share this experience with you.

I am Father Fasika Asrat, CM, and my pastoral work unfolds in Ethiopia, specifically in the Holy Savior Catholic Church in the village of Shadda, within the apostolic vicariate of the Jimma-Bonga diocese. The congregants of this parish are members of the Menja tribe, a people marked by suffering and marginalization in society. Their livelihood comes from selling charcoal and firewood, with some engaged in pottery and hunting. We have approximately 380 catholic families, forming a large yet economically modest community.

The lives of these villagers revolve around the daily effort to support their families and communities. Nevertheless, they find space in their lives to dedicate to the church. It is the hands of these individuals that erected what I consider the most beautiful church in the world. It lacks the majestic sculptures of St. Peter or the precious ceiling of Il Gesù, but its walls speak to me of humanity and commitment, of a community that has risen in the face of adversity, demonstrating that fraternity is the fastest path to sanctity.

I am fortunate to accompany this community and walk alongside them. I am proud to be their parish priest, proclaiming the gospel to the most disadvantaged, following the example of St. Vincent, but also discovering in their looks and desires the gospel I wish to preach. Amidst their poverty, the inhabitants of Shadda have decided to keep dreaming. Despite living in precarious conditions, they wish to build an even larger temple, dedicated to the Sacred Savior. Generosity has been their steadfast response despite scarcity. The humblest have found in the Church the salvation the world never provided. Discriminated against and marginalized by society, they found in Christ the acceptance and love of the Father.

Beyond the desire to build a new temple, we have a greater dream: to improve the education and academic training of this village. We recognize that knowledge and education are the keys that will open doors to a more promising future. We need resources, both human and economic. Financial support is essential to teach them about their human dignity and improve their lives. Addressing the roots of their problems through activities such as education, life skills training, and psychological treatment becomes crucial.

With every word I share, I want to convey the warmth and hope emanating from this community. Each of us, from our corner of the world, can be part of this journey, extending our hands with generosity and building a brighter future for Shadda. In Christ, we find the strength to move forward, and in fraternity, the promise of a tomorrow filled with hope.

Father Fasika Asrat, CM