At the beginning of August, Bishop Raimo carried out his eighth and final episcopal visitation, this time to St Ursula’s Parish in Kouvola. Such a “canonical visitation” always includes a general review of the life and activities of the parish, a careful examination of its spiritual and financial affairs, and meetings with various groups and, above all, with the members of the parish councils, the pastoral council and the finance council. The Bishop has also been glad to meet young people in the parishes.
In the case of Kouvola, the parish also serves Catholics in many different towns and areas, some of which may have more Catholics than Kouvola itself, such as Lahti. The spiritual well-being of Catholics living throughout these different areas was therefore also an important part of the Bishop’s visitation.
On Sunday, 2 August, the parish gathered for the principal Mass, filling St Ursula’s Church. The Bishop was solemnly received at the church door. Familiar Catholic melodies filled the church from the very beginning as the Bishop sprinkled the congregation with holy water. During the Mass, five adults were received into full communion with the Church, and young people received the Sacrament of Confirmation.
In his homily, the Bishop therefore gave thanks to God and expressed his gratitude for the contribution of the parishioners and the spirit of communion within the parish. He reminded them that the life of the faithful has, as it were, two legs or two maps through which they receive nourishment at Mass: the Word of God and the Eucharist. The destination is also clear: the Kingdom of God in heaven. Through our difficulties, joys and sorrows, this is where we are all journeying. The Bishop also encouraged everyone to speak openly about going to church and about their faith when others ask them about it. There is no reason to hide it.
The parish priest of Kouvola, Father Eze Charles Nwoko, has launched several projects aimed at carrying out a major renovation of the church, which was built in 1993, and improving its grounds. More information about these projects and the life of the parish in general can be found on the parish website.
Marko Tervaportti