The Jumuiya Alabama Catholic group was formed in 2017 at Prince of Peace Catholic Church with the aim of bringing the Kenyan Catholic community to celebrate Mass in their national language, Swahili. Father Daniel, who was based in Montgomery, was the group’s first priest. After four years of serving the community, Father Daniel was transferred to New York. Father Epah Mugagga, who hails from Cameroon, was a priest at Prince of Peace at the time and took over the helm.

To mark the group’s 5th anniversary despite adversities, a Mass of thanksgiving and a celebration was held on June 3. Since its inception, the group’s numbers have doubled. They meet every third Sunday of the month in the Prince of Peace Chapel.

The 5th anniversary celebration began in the main church with Father Mugagga celebrating Mass and Fathers Eric Gami, Frankline Fomukong, Michael Thang’wa, and Kariuki Matiru concelebrating. The St. Mary’s Choir and the Jumuiya choir provided the music. 

After the Mass, the congregation proceeded to the reception for food and entertainment in Deasy Hall. A mix of African delicacies was served, then individual entertainment and group entertainment was  offered by the group’s members. Dancing competitions and a fashion show were also held. The celebration ended with the cutting of the cake by the priests present and a closing prayer.