Polycarpe Mvita Kalunuanga (1962-2024)
Born in Dibandishi, D.R. Congo
on April 15, 1962
First vows on October 7, 1988
Ordained priest on December1, 1995
Missionary in Haiti and D.R. Congo
Died in Kinshasa on September 10, 2024, at the age of 62
Polycarpe Mvita was the second youngest of six children, and was born and raised in Dibandishi. During his childhood, he encountered the CICM missionaries in the Luiza Diocese, whose influence inspired him to embrace the missionary life. Driven by this aspiration, he entered the Buisson Ardent novitiate in Kinshasa on October 7, 1987. His journey progressed smoothly until he reached the philosophy stage, still in Kinshasa. After completing his philosophy studies, he requested missionary experience before pursuing theology and left for Haiti.
After spending three years in Haiti, he studied theology in Mexico, where he joined a vibrant community of young missionaries from Latin America and the Caribbean. During this time, he further immersed himself in Mexican culture.
Upon returning to the Congo for his ordination as a priest in Dibandishi, his birthplace, the General Government recommended him to form the first team of missionaries destined for Cuba. However, due to the challenges of entering Fidel Castro's Cuba, he was initially called back to his home province to provide services until conditions improved. During this period, he became actively involved in parish ministry in the Diocese of Mbuji-Mayi.
Eventually, the mission project in Cuba was abandoned, and Polycarpe was entrusted with different responsibilities. He was well-loved and respected, and was known for his sincerity.
Polycarpe was a tireless worker capable of juggling many tasks simultaneously, leaving him with little time to rest. He lived with a sense of urgency, perhaps aware that his time on earth was limited and he had much to accomplish. He loved his life, cherished his mission, and took pride in being a CICM missionary. However, his relentless dedication took a toll on his health. He suffered multiple strokes over the years, which left him increasingly dependent on the care of others. Despite these hardships, his faith never wavered. He remained committed to attending the morning Eucharist, praying with the community, and singing in his own way.
His life could have been extended had it not been for his most recent heart attack, which ultimately proved fatal, rendering him unable to speak. He passed away in a hospital in Kinshasa. Polycarpe devoted himself to his mission, leaving the legacy of a faithful servant who endured suffering until the end. May he rest in the peace of Christ.
Jean Kanyinda Katumba §
