In the Lingala language, “Bilenge ya Mwinda” means “Youth of Light.” It is the name that was given to a youth ministry that began as a choir at St. Peter’s parish in Kinshasa, in 1971. The group was initiated by the then vicar (later Bishop) Fr. Ignace Matondo, cicm, who was also a sociologist with a special affinity for youth-related issues. In 1974, Bishop Matondo was appointed to St. Alphonse parish, where the “Youth of Light” organization was officially established as a youth formation ministry.
Bishop Matondo had been witnessing stark marginalization of the youth in his region at that time. He observed that there was no infrastructure aimed at the formation of the youth, and he sensed a foreboding lack of preparation for their future. The inspiration for the group’s name comes from the Gospel, John 8:12: “Jesus said, I am the light of the world. Anyone who follows me will not walk in darkness…” The “Youth of Light” is, therefore, a Catholic movement of young people (ages 14-30 years) who follow a formation based on the Gospel, interwoven into the context of African heritage and life. Bishop Matondo considered the youth as the seeds of a better tomorrow. He believed that the evolution of change could only be realized through the careful, faithful development and formation of society’s youth. It was in this context that the format for the “Youth of Light” group was developed.
In the 40 years since its inception, “Youth of Light” has given rise to an undeniable spiritual heritage for youth initiation. This African youth program is distinguished as a paradigm of practical formation for better imitating Christ. Bishop Matondo (1932-2011) was certainly the author of a tremendous legacy when he shaped this ministry of spiritual purpose and worthiness for our youth.
The “Youth of Light” ministry has parochial guidance at all levels, from the parish to the regional, and up to the Kinshasa archdiocese where the current coordinator is Fr. Robert Disuka. There are three main stages of initiation, called: Lucidity, Fundamental Option, and Radiation. The “Youth of Light” is structured according to the participants’ varying understanding and capabilities. In the beginning, youth are primarily learning about the group and their faith. Over time, they participate in formation activities and begin to commit to working on certain projects, eventually pledging to be a representative of the group. Many continue their participation while they also pursue career education or training, and some young adults will move from their early formation to becoming instructors for the younger participants. Those who continue in “Youth of Light” through each of these levels can ultimately move into the position of an initiator where, as experienced young men and women of faith, they can become spiritual counselors to the junior members.
Throughout their formation, the development of moral, spiritual and intellectual qualities prepares the “Youth of Light” members to be responsible citizens. We promote a strong work ethic and taking the initiative to improve one’s own life. We also involve the youth in pastoral programs such as attention to the poor, visitation of the sick, and regard for the imprisoned, abandoned or orphaned. They work as volunteers in local institutions for the needy or neglected in the community. The group meets regularly to share the joys and pains they have experienced through these endeavors, and we see and hear the positive impact of their involvement in their relationships and faith lives.
The celebration
The 40th anniversary of founding “Bilenge ya Mwinda” was celebrated in January 2015, at the Shrine of Our Lady of Peace of Fatima, in Kinshasa (pg. 26). The presider of the Eucharistic celebration was Bishop Edward Kisonga, auxiliary bishop of Kinshasa archdiocese. All the members of the “Youth of Light” ministry participated actively, and the celebration was well animated. Members from all the parishes of the archdiocese came to give thanks to God for the existence of this ministry and its fruits.
Cardinal Laurent Monsengwo, of the Kinshasa archdiocese, arrived at the end of the Mass to encourage the members of “Bilenge ya Mwinda” ministry. He invited them to take Christ as their “model and friend” for all time. He interacted with them, shared their joy and aspirations in life, as well as the challenges facing youth in our country and context today. He had a meal with them, enjoying some time to mingle and interact with many members of the same ministry coming from different places.
“Youth of Light” from the parish of Our Lady of Fatima were the hosting members, led by their chaplain, Fr. Jean-Pierre Pabungu, cicm. They organized the celebration and worked tirelessly to see that things came together appropriately on this special day. Their love and commitment were manifest in the program they created. They animated those in attendance by serving as the choir during mass, and by orchestrating the songs, dances, presentations and other activities that rounded out this heartfelt celebration.
The impact of 40 years
Over the years, the positive impacts of “Bilenge ya Mwinda” ministry have even extended beyond the borders of the Democratic Republic of Congo, with groups forming in the Congo-Brazzaville and the Central African Republic. After forty years of existence, we can see the active presence and fruits of the “Bilenge ya Mwinda” ministry in all social strata. There are at least four former members who have become bishops, many who have become priests and other religious, as well as prominent political and business professionals, responsible citizens, and loving family members. Each serves as an example of youth who took the light from this ministry, and used it to light the way to a positive future.
The objective of the late Bishop Matondo was to build an enlightened world through youth formed in faithful preparation, rooted in the Gospels. He believed than an initiated youth would shine in their mission, by implementing the qualities they received from a personal and Christian vocation in the service of humanity. He wrote, “I saw the youth building a better world.”
Forty years later, we continue to see the fruits of his vision. We stand in gratitude with the many members of “Youth of Light,” past and present, who have enjoyed the faithful support of Missionhurst-CICM benefactors over the years. Your prayer and material offerings have kept the light burning for these youth. May it always be brightly shown to them, so that they can carry it forward and continue to build up a better world.
Louis Ngoy, cicm
Kinshasa, DR of Congo
Fr. Louis Ngoy, cicm is a native of the Democratic Republic of Congo who joined Missionhurst CICM in 1993 and was ordained in 2003. After several years working in Zambia, he returned to the DR Congo in 2007 to work in the Noviciate of Mbudi/Kinshasa. Since January of 2013, he has been serving as the provincil superior of Kinshasa.
