Added Fr. Raphael Chapel Donation Appeal - Californiaknights : Job Details

Where is this located?This project is located in the rural area of the central region of the Democratic Republic of Congo in central Africa.

Who is the bishop of this diocese?On Saturday, June 11, 2022, the Holy Father Francis appointed Bishop Vincent Tshomba as the new Bishop of the Diocese of Tshumbe. Before this appointment, Bishop Tshomba was an auxiliary bishop of the archdiocese of Kinshasa, the capital city of the Democratic Republic of Congo. His canonical installation is scheduled in the town of Tshumbe on August 14.

Is this project endorsed and authorized by the bishop?Yes, the former Bishop of the Diocese of Tshumbe, Bishop Nicolas Djomo, endorsed and authorized this noble project. His successor will follow in his footsteps.

What are the challenges the Church is facing in this area?The Catholic Church is facing challenges such as the invading waves of evangelical and Pentecostal sects, deep-rooted beliefs in local customs, illiteracy, and economic poverty.

Is my donation tax deductible according to the IRS?Yes. Please see the donation page.

Why is this a good use of my tithe?Because you will be investing in a matter of absolute and eternal value. It is a way to imitate Jesus who says, “Zeal for your house will consume me.” (John 2:17).

Who is Fr. Raphael Okitofumba?Fr. Raphael Okitafumba is a Roman Catholic priest of the Diocese of Tshumbe, located in the central part of the Democratic Republic of Congo. His diocese is very poor and operates with a deficit budget. Despite this, he obtained higher education in the USA with the help of sponsors and returned in October 2018 with multiple master's degrees and a Ph.D. He is now a full-time professor at Saint John Paul II Seminary.

What is his role in the project?Fr. Raphael Okitafumba is the initiator of this project. He is responsible for caring for the spiritual needs of the villages around the seminary, celebrating sacraments, and conducting outdoor Eucharist celebrations, often under threat from tropical rains, as experienced on May 15, 2022.

How will I know if my contribution is making a difference?Pictures will be posted on this website once construction begins.

Several years ago, a small group of Brother Knights and parishioners attended Sunday mass at St. Joseph the Worker parish in Berkeley, California. A Catholic priest from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Father Raphael, celebrated the Mass with reverence and humility. He is a graduate of Berkeley with multiple master's degrees and a Ph.D., overseeing the seminary and serving as Vicar General of his diocese.

This journey of friendship and discipleship began with local contributions and support from our brothers, enabling funding for a medical clinic, water wells, a chapel, and a foundation for a future church building.

This appeal encourages each of the 700 California KofC State Councils to donate $100 to $200, which could raise over $70,000 for building a chapel, rectory, and supporting water and school projects. Please consider donating this amount. Let us remember, “Let your heart be consumed for our father's house.”

The link below leads to a 5-minute video about the appeal, and the QR code is for your donation via “The Knights of Columbus Donation Fund Agreement.”

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