Dissin: The parish of Sainte Th©r¨se de l’Enfant J©sus in Dissin resonated on Friday, August 15, 2025, as it hosted the Feast of the Assumption, drawing over 5,000 faithful from Burkina Faso and neighboring countries. The event was graced by several political, administrative, and religious authorities.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the event, centered on themes of social cohesion and hope for a better future, commenced with a minute of silence honoring the memory of the Volunteers for the Defense of the Fatherland (VDP) and the Defense and Security Forces (FDS) who sacrificed their lives for the nation. Father Th©otime Marie Kpi¨l¨ Somda, in his homily, highlighted the symbolic fight of Mary against evil, urging the congregation, particularly women, to emulate the Virgin Mary’s wisdom to foster peace and joy within families.
Prayers of intention focused on priests, nuns, catechists, the ailing, the deceased, and for peace in Burkina Faso. The celebration featured vibrant hymns of thanksgiving. The day’s events began with a “little mass” at 7:30 a.m., followed by a grand mass at 9:30 a.m. led by eight priests. The procession, accompanied by the “Children of Mary” group and the Faa-i-touara association women, was marked by dance, balafons, and tam-tams.
Inside the church, 4,500 seats filled quickly, leaving latecomers outside or under nearby trees. Notable attendees included the Minister of Sports, Youth and Employment, Roland A. Somda, the President of the Constitutional Council, and other regional dignitaries. Minister Somda encouraged the community to enhance social cohesion and engage in national initiatives concerning health, education, and agriculture.
The preceding day saw faithful, mainly women, march from the tomb of Catholic faith pioneer Pierre Koula to the church, engaging in a rosary and hymns to the Virgin Mary. The mass concluded around 1 p.m., transitioning into a lively atmosphere with a shopping street and musical entertainment. Celebrations continued into the evening with activities at the Dagara Culture Festival, the Southwest Talent Festival, and the Toyaga rock painting site.
The solemn Feast of the Assumption in the parish church of Dissin, once desecrated in 2018, proceeded without incident, drawing many faithful and onlookers.