The Catholic Bishop of Inongo Diocese, DR Congo, Most Rev. (Dr.) Donatien Bafuidinsoni Maloko-Mana SJ, has called on priests to be dedicated to prayers, committed to the word of God, and ensure that their ministry is rooted in a deep and personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Bishop Maloko-Mana gave the charge while delivering the homily, during the ordination ceremony of four priests of the Society of Jesus, held recently at St. Francis Catholic Church, Idimu, Lagos.
Expressing happiness at the growth in the congregation, the Bishop said that to see young brothers becoming priests is a reason for great joy as they continue and become the church’s future leaders. The Prelate urged the priests to allow God who called them use them, and always guide them in their ministry. He added that they be men of prayer and work in communion with others, stating that leadership is not only about power, but about serving others with love. According to him, “Be men of communion and synodality, that is to work with others, to think and act together with and for the Church, for the building of the body of Christ.
As you serve God and the people of God, be also trustful to God, because He’s the one who called you, and will always be with you.” The Bishop encouraged the priests that like St. Ignatius of Layla, they should not be afraid to get their hands dirty as they go to the remotest places to serve the poorest of the poor. He urged all to put their gifts and talents together to build a better world, to spread a kingdom of love, where justice prevails, so that we can be real shepherds for one another. Also speaking on the occasion, Very Rev. Fr. John Ghansah SJ, Provincial, Northwest Africa Province of the Society of Jesus, expressed joy, disclosing that the congregation has six of its members for ordination into the priesthood this year. According to the priest, the first Liberian Jesuit was ordained few days ago before this four and one in the coming week in Ghana.
“It’s really a great joy, because when a Jesuit is ordained, he’s now ready for mission. So, they are available for me now to send them anywhere in the world, to preach and proclaim the gospel”, he said. Speaking on behalf of the newly ordained, Rev. Fr. Vincent Sousa Wada, expressed happiness, as he disclosed that his journey to the priesthood began over 20 years ago, having been inspired by his former Irish Parish Priest then, Fr. Pariel.
The priest thanked God and all who have been part of their journey, especially their parents, urging his companions to continue their work with courage. “Today is the fun part. After today it’s still going to be a lot of work. A lot of challenges are going to come and it’s not going to be all rosy. So, I’m encouraging all my friends who were ordained with me today that they should stay strong, stay prayerful and hopeful in God.”
