“As I embrace my role as a priest, I carry with me the memories of my family’s influence, the trials of my youth, the rigour of my formation and the diverse experiences that have enriched my understanding of ministry.” Father Martin Jere tells us about his vocation journey. 

From a young age, even before my parents died, I felt a deep call to the priesthood. When I went to church with my father, even though I didn’t understand the liturgy, I was fascinated by the celebration of the mass. I felt that one day I would be part of that sacred moment. My mother’s devotion to the rosary and my sister Maureen’s nightly Bible stories further nurtured my faith and deepened my longing for a spiritual life.

Despite these early influences, life took a challenging turn after the death of my parents. My brothers and I faced the harsh realities of adulthood at a tender age, relying on the modest inheritance of a house and some funds for our education, while managing to find shelter and some financial support, we quickly learned that people often took advantage of our youth. However, as we struggled to make ends meet, our hope in God remained steadfast. Through sheer determination and resilience, we completed secondary school, strengthened by our unwavering faith.

When I finished school in 2009, I did not immediately enter the seminary, but worked to support my family and prepare for the subjects I needed to repeat. Balancing work and studies was demanding, but I felt it was essential to contribute to the well-being of my family while pursuing my vocation. It was during this period of reflection that I began to discern my vocation more clearly.

My journey began in 2013 during the pre-postulancy with the Comboni Missionaries in Malawi. The decision to leave my job was fraught with uncertainty. I was faced with a dilemma: should I continue to work or take a leap of faith into the unknown, much like Abraham stepping into a land he did not know?

One day, after a long day at work, I went to the chapel to seek God’s guidance. The serenity I felt during my prayers convinced me to pursue the priesthood. The 8th of April 2013 marked the beginning of this journey as I travelled to Malawi with a Comboni vocation promoter. The serenity I experienced in prayer accompanied me during the three months of pre-postulancy, igniting my love for the Comboni Community and confirming my decision.

After pre-postulancy, I entered postulancy in October 2013, a rigorous period of philosophical study that pushed my intellectual and spiritual limits. We moved from a seminary to an institute affiliated to the Catholic University of Malawi, where we earned degrees rather than diplomas. 

This transition required a significant adjustment, as we began to experience greater academic expectations and a more independent living environment. The three years of postulancy were challenging yet enriching. It was not merely an academic endeavour but a time of profound personal growth. I learned to balance academics, prayer, social life, and pastoral service without losing sight of my spiritual and community commitments. This period was pivotal in developing my self-esteem and understanding of what it meant to be a Comboni Missionary.

Graduating on 3 June 2016 was a moment of triumph, the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. In September 2016, I entered the novitiate in Nnamugongo, Uganda. This second stage of formation focused on internalising my faith and deepening my spirituality. 

It was a transformative experience that involved moving from intellectual knowledge to heartfelt spirituality through prayer, meditation, and pastoral work. During the novitiate, I developed a profound sense of belonging to the Comboni Missionaries. I could confidently say, “I am a Comboni Missionary inside and outside.” This conviction solidified my commitment to their mission and the core values of our congregation. On May 1st 2018, I took my first vows an experience that deepened my resolve to serve God and the Church.

After the novitiate, I began theological studies in Lima, Peru, a country I had never imagined visiting. My journey began with the visa process in South Africa, where I encountered the language barrier and cultural differences. I was surprised when, while waiting for my flight in Brazil, I missed my connection because I did not speak Portuguese.  This unexpected turn of events turned into an opportunity for exploration, as I was rerouted through Colombia before arriving in Peru.

 On 9 August 2018, I landed at Jorge Chaves International Airport in Lima. The first Spanish word I heard was “si”, a simple yes profound introduction to a new language and culture. Taking on the challenge of learning Spanish was enriching, especially as I immersed myself in theological studies in this language.

Theological education in Peru offered a unique perspective, particularly in the context of liberation theology, which emphasises social justice and the plight of the marginalised. This approach resonated deeply with me, as I had witnessed the struggles of disadvantaged communities throughout my life. Studying in this context was both a challenge and a blessing, shaping my understanding of faith in action and the importance of engaging with the vulnerable. 

Four years later, I returned to Africa for my missionary service in Malawi.  I made my final vows on 9 February 2024, thus confirming my commitment to the Comboni Missionaries, and the next day I was ordained a deacon in the parish of Lirangwe in Blantyre. 

On 24 August 2024 I was ordained a priest in Lusaka in my country, Zambia. As I reflect on my journey to the priesthood, I recognise the myriad experiences that have shaped who I am today. The journey has not always been easy, but it has been full of lessons, growth and divine guidance. Each challenge has strengthened my faith and deepened my commitment to serve God and the Church. 

As I embrace my role as a priest, I carry with me the memories of my family’s influence, the trials of my youth, the rigour of my formation and the diverse experiences that have enriched my understanding of ministry. I am grateful for the support of my community and the opportunities that have allowed me to fulfil my vocation. 

In this new chapter of my life, I remain committed to serving the local population and responding to their needs, embodying the values of the Comboni Missionaries. My priestly journey is not only a personal achievement, but a testimony to the grace of God and the commitment of many who have walked with me. I look forward to the road ahead, ready to accept the challenges and joys that come with my vocation as a Comboni Missionary Priest.