![Picture of Bishop Hiiboro, Priests and the 14 seminarians [Photo Emmanuel Mandella]](https://rurugene.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Picture-of-Bishop-Hiiboro-Priests-and-the-14-seminarians-Photo-Emmanuel-Mandella.jpeg)
By Emmanuel Mandella
A sense of hope and spiritual commitment filled the air in Nzara on Tuesday May 20, 2025, as 14 young seminarians were honored after successfully completing a five-month orientation at St. John Pre-Priesthood Formation House.
Bishop Hiiboro reminded the faithful to support their sons and help them remain strong in faith since priesthood is not a career for wealth.
“Priesthood is not a career for wealth it is a calling of sacrifice, humility, and deep service to Christ and humanity, support your sons, guide them, and help them remain strong through every stage of formation,” the bishop stated.
Bishop Hiiboro, who led the establishment of the formation house, commended the 14 seminarians for choosing a path often misunderstood in today’s materialistic world.
He also challenged communities in Nzara and across the diocese to prioritize education and agriculture as pillars of development.
“We must educate our children and grow our own food. These are the foundations of a strong South Sudan,” he added, calling on Christian families to also support their priests: “Ordaining a priest is costly. Let us not wait for external help. Let every parish initiate local support systems for their clergy.”
The formation house, initially established in Mupoi by Bishop Eduardo Hiiboro Kussala of the Catholic Diocese of Tombura-Yambio (CDTY), was relocated to Nzara due to persistent insecurity in Greater Tombura County.
Despite the challenges, the spirit of formation remains strong, with the mission of shaping faithful men for the priesthood under the Catholic Church.
During a colorful closing ceremony in Nzara at Palica, certificates of appreciation were awarded to the seminarians for their spiritual dedication and academic discipline. Addressing the gathering, Fr. Babie Victor praised the faithful of the diocese for continuously supporting initiatives that foster spiritual growth, unity, and peace.
“You have not just nurtured the Church but the future of South Sudan, your support empowers these young men to carry the Word of God to our communities and beyond,” Fr. Babie remarked.
Speaking on behalf of his colleagues, Tingba Anthony, one of the seminarians, expressed deep gratitude and reaffirmed their collective commitment to the journey of priesthood.
“We vow to walk this path with discipline and faith. We thank our parents for standing by us from day one. Without your support, we would not be here.”
Among the proud parents in attendance were Mr. Kubako Daniel Kpikoro and Mrs. Benita Fastino Basukagbi, whose sons were among the graduates.
“My heart is full of joy, we are giving our son to God, and we trust he will serve the Church with humility and honor” said Kubako Daniel.
For her part Mrs. Benita added that, “This is a blessing for our family and the entire community as we pray, they go forward with strength.”
These determined young men are now set to begin their next chapter a rigorous three-year philosophy program at St. John Paul II Institute for Philosophy in Yambio.
