New chapel also built to benefit parish community

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries were able to complete a renovation project for the priests’ residence and parish office of the Salesian Chemchem Parish, located in Lindi, Tanzania, thanks to donor funding. Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco, provided the funding for plastering, flooring, painting, ceilings, doors and windows. The construction also included the installation of plumbing systems, wiring and lighting. Salesians were also able to build a functional kitchen and laundry area.

The funding further paid for furnishings for the bedrooms, living spaces and guest accommodations, along with equipping the parish office with desks, chairs, cabinets, a computer and a printer. A small chapel was also created. Approximately 1,200 parishioners directly benefit from the improved parish facilities.

The region is predominantly Muslim, and the Catholic community represents a small but vibrant minority. The area also has a large youth population in need of pastoral support, education and moral guidance. When the Salesians first arrived at Chemchem Parish, the priests’ residence building was largely unfinished. Out of 12 planned rooms, only two were usable. The rest of the building lacked plastered walls, flooring, ceilings, proper electrical installation, plumbing facilities, kitchen space and a parish administrative office.

A Salesian noted, “Because of these conditions, the missionaries found it difficult to live comfortably and to coordinate pastoral activities effectively. With the generous support of Salesian Missions, the project began renovations and completed the residence building. One wing of the priests’ residence has been completed and is now functional. This allows the Salesian missionaries to live within the parish community and continue their pastoral presence among the young people. The renovated facilities have strengthened pastoral coordination and created a welcoming space for youth gatherings, catechesis classes, and community meetings.”

One of the parishioners, Jonas Mkapa, said, “The presence of the Salesians in Chemchem is very important for our young people. Even though the conditions here are difficult, their presence brings hope to the youth and strengthens our parish community.”

In Tanzania, 67.9% of the population lives below the poverty line. While the country has seen some economic growth in tourism, mining, trade and communication, the number of Tanzanians living below the poverty line has marginally increased due to rapid population growth. In some regions, up to half of the population struggles to meet the cost of essential food and shelter and other basic necessities like clothing, health care and education.

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Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Salesian Missions – Tanzania

UNICEF – Tanzania