Recognizing the need for the SMB charism in his diocese, Archbishop Omar Alberto Sánchez Cubillos affirmed its ongoing presence in Colombia. Br. Jackson Mutua, from Kenya, formed in Zimbabwe and among the first with temporary promise, was sent to Popayán for a formative missionary experience.
Brother Jackson, what inspired you to join the missionary life in the Bethlehem Mission Society?
I would describe my vocation as a call to love, to serve, and to bear witness to Christ across cultures. So I was drawn to missionary life by a profound desire to serve God and to dedicate myself to the service of others, particularly in regions where the Gospel is less known. The strong missionary spirit of the SMB, together with its commitment to the universal Church, deeply resonated with my vocation and inspired my decision.
How has your formation in Zimbabwe shaped your identity as a missionary?
My formation has profoundly shaped my identity as a missionary by grounding me spiritually, intellectually, and pastorally. It has instilled in me a sense of discipline and adaptability, while nurturing a deep awareness of mission that is firmly rooted in Christ. Equally important has been the support and witness of community life, which continually sustains my vocation.
What is your current pastoral ministry in Colombia?
I currently serve as a missionary in Colombia, where I am engaged in pastoral and community-based work. I undertake religious formation courses at a center for religious congregations in Medellín, alongside intensive Spanish language studies. In addition, I assist in the distribution of the Eucharist at Saint John XXIII Parish, and on Sundays, I participate in pastoral visits to the sick in a nearby hospital.
How did you adapt to a new culture and language in Colombia?
I have adapted to the new culture and language through patience, openness, and humility. While I am still in the process of learning Spanish, engaging with the local community has been instrumental in helping me gradually integrate and appreciate the richness of the culture.
What are some of the main pastoral challenges you face in Colombia?
Some of the main pastoral challenges I encounter include the language barrier and cultural differences. As I continue to learn Spanish, communication can at times be demanding. Adapting to a new cultural context also requires patience, openness, and humility. Furthermore, engaging with people who have varying levels of faith commitment presents its own challenges, calling for sensitivity, discernment, and creativity in the work of evangelization.
What differences and similarities do you observe between Kenya and Colombia in terms of faith and culture?
Both Kenya and Colombia are marked by a vibrant expression of faith and a strong sense of community life. In both contexts, religion plays a significant role in shaping social and cultural values. However, the expressions of spirituality and the surrounding cultural traditions differ considerably, reflecting the unique histories and identities of each country. In Colombia, culture profoundly shapes the way people express their spirituality. Religious celebrations and communal practices are often infused with joy, music, and shared participation, making the expression of faith both vibrant and deeply communal. Here, I have come to deeply appreciate the value of hospitality, the joy found in simple living, and the strength of communal bonds. Their openness and heartfelt expression of faith have not only nourished my own spiritual journey but also reminded me that mission is a mutual exchange, both giving and receiving.
How do you approach intercultural ministry as a missionary?
In intercultural ministry, I strive to approach every community with respect, openness, and a genuine willingness to learn. I begin by listening and building authentic relationships, and I seek to share the Gospel in ways that resonate with the local culture while remaining true to its core message. This mission and pastoral experience have profoundly shaped me, fostering greater patience, humility, and open-mindedness, while deepening my trust in God.
What does being a missionary mean to you in today’s world?
To me, being a missionary today means embodying and sharing hope, love, and faith in a world that is searching for meaning and direction. For a missionary today, the virtues of faith, humility, patience, love, and perseverance are essential, guiding both how we serve others and how we grow personally in our vocation. As well, I understand the Church’s mission in a global context as a call to proclaim the Gospel, promote justice, and foster unity across cultures. The Church is meant to be a living sign of hope and love, addressing contemporary challenges while remaining deeply rooted in Christ.
What keeps you motivated during difficult times in your mission?
During challenging moments in my mission, I draw strength from prayer, the support of my community, and a constant reminder of the deeper purpose of my vocation.
What message would you like to share with young people discerning a missionary vocation?
To young people discerning a missionary vocation, I would say: do not be afraid to follow God’s call. Trust in Him, and He will faithfully guide your path.
If you could summarize your missionary journey in one profound lesson, what would it be?
God works powerfully through those who serve with an open and willing heart.
