Clare N
Hundreds of mourners have gathered at Holy Family Banyatereza Convent in Kinyamasika to pay their last respects to the late Rev. Sister Maria Augustine DST, who was also the biological sister of the late Msgr. Illario Nkaijababwo.
Sr. Maria Augustine, a member of the Abasingo Clan, passed away at the age of 94 on Friday, July 25, 2025, after a long battle with age-related illnesses. She died peacefully at the convent where she had been receiving care.
Presiding over the funeral Mass, Rt. Rev. Bishop Robert Muhiirwa Akiiki encouraged them elderly religious sisters to continue offering their prayers before the Blessed Sacrament. He emphasized the importance of praying for the people of God, religious leaders, political leaders, and the entire world, stressing that their spiritual support remains vital. He urged the sisters to remain firm in their faith and keep their trust and commitment to God.
Bishop Muhiirwa remembered Sr. Maria Augustine as a source of wisdom and inspiration during his seminary days, noting the impact of her advice in various parishes.
The Local Council Chairperson of Kinyamasika, Rev.Bro. Boniface Mujuni, praised Sr. Maria Augustine for laying a strong foundation rooted in Christ. He stressed that the fruits of her faith and dedication continue to benefit the current generation of sisters.
Brother Mujuni, appealed to local residents to visit the elderly sisters at the convent from time to time, and called on the government to consider lowering the qualifying age for the Senior Citizens Grant (SAGE), observing that many elderly people are unable to enjoy its benefits due to late access.
Representing the Abasingo Clan, Mr. Thomas Kakwezi said Sr. Maria Augustine had inspired them to live a prayerful life through her own example. He also expressed gratitude to the Banyatereza community for their hospitality and dedication to caring for the sick and elderly.
Born as Anna Maria Tibanagwa on February 17, 1931, in the area that was then part of greater Butiiti Parish (now Katoosa), Sr. Maria Augustine made her first vows in religious life the Congregation of Banyatereza on January 11, 1954, and her final vows on January 6, 1963, at Virika Cathedral.
She served faithfully in religious life for 71 years, ministering in various parishes and convents, including Butiiti, Yerya, Holy Family Convent Kinyamasika, Nyamigisa, Bujumbura, Virika, and Nsenyi, among others, in different capacities.
Rev. Sr. Mother Seraphine Kaitesirwa and her Council described Sr. Augustine as a patient and hardworking sister who carried out her responsibilities with great dedication until her final days.
May her soul rest in eternal peace. Amen.