Lenten Appeal
Greetings from all the monks at the Benedictine Mission House in Schuyler, NE
Lent is part of the journey towards the Feast of Feast: Easter!
In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus gives us solid advice on practices that we can apply to our observance of Lent (Chapter 6, verses 1-6 and 16-18). Even the Rule of St. Benedict speaks about this special season. In chapter 49:7b, Benedict encourages “to look forward to holy Easter with joy and spiritual longing.”
Let us celebrate the Feast of Feasts with great joy and gratitude for our salvation through the suffering, passion, death and resurrection of Jesus!
The monks of Holy Spirit Abbey in Mvimwa, Tanzania, expanded their ministries to towns across the county, affirming the vision of the Missionary Benedictine Congregation of St. Ottilien that bringing the light of faith and the monastic presence remain important factors in the life of the Church and society.
St. Bernard, Kapili
House St. Bernard in the township of Kipili, along the shores of Lake Tanganyika, is a foundation of Mvimwa Abbey. Natural beauty attracts more and more people to settle there, especially since the region has become an international tourist destination.
The infrastructure is changing at a fast pace due to the growing population. The number of young families with children is on the rise! The masterplan identified the need of a kindergarten and qualified staff as a priority. Mvimwa Abbey envisions House St. Bernard as a Benedictine monastery centering on presence and ministry among the people.
We face a big challenge!
We lack qualified teachers to care for the youngest of society. Kindergarten teachers have an important role in laying the foundation of education and faith, preparing children for the next steps of life. Applicants for a teaching position and/or care of children will be educated at our schools in other parts of Tanzania.
Kids need a safe space where they can learn and play! As in all our schools, nutritious meals are provided that otherwise might not be possible in a regular family setting.
As Missionary Benedictines we care for all of God’s people, especially the young, old, sick, and most vulnerable. May I invite you to partner with us to help a dream come true?
TOGETHER LET US MAKE A DIFFERENCE!
Ways to help, especially during the 2026 Lenten Season!
Prayer is a powerful force! Please support us with your prayer and, if prompted by the Holy Spirit, help also financially as your resources and obligations permit. Your support to educate kindergarten teachers and our work with kids at Kipili will not go unnoticed, because “sharing is caring!”
In order to move forward, I see the following steps as essential:
Identify laity and religious women and men who have a heart for the wellbeing of children and the ability to study the various subjects needed for future kindergarten teachers.
Work with local authorities, both civic and Church, to get all the permissions for the construction of a kindergarten on property already belonging to Mvimwa Abbey. Construction cost is an issue!
Provide fair wages for teachers and workers through proper financial management.
Embrace the social teaching of the Church and treat young and old as children of the one Father of us all, bringing HIS love, care, and compassion to all whom we meet.
Your interest in our work gives me confidence that we can raise the funds needed to educate teachers and staff, paying also fair wages. Thank you!
We in turn remember all your intentions in daily prayer.
Gratefully yours:
Bro. Tobias, OSB
Director of Development
Our legal name is Benedictine Mission House. We are recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501 (c) (3) non-profit corporation and as such are incorporated under the laws of the State of Nebraska. Our Federal ID #47-6025584