By Sr. Henriette Anne, FSSA
Fr. Santo Gaba Samuel and Fr. Ezekiel Sungerukuari James clergy of the Catholic Diocese of Tombura-Yambio (CDTY), who celebrated their Jubilees yesterday on the Feast of Corpus Christi, in South Sudan have been urged to let their priesthood continue to bear holy, humble fruit, one soul at a time.
In his congratulatory letter to the two jubilarians, bishop Eduardo acknowledged that the lives of the two is a powerful testimony of faith, resilience, and compassionate service, ordained in the midst of civil service to today’s joyful celebration.
“Heartfelt congratulations on the remarkable gift of twenty-five years of priestly ministry, a true Silver Jubilee filled with grace! From being ordained in the midst of civil conflict to today’s joyful celebration, your lives stand as powerful testimonies of faith, resilience, and compassionate service.”
Bishop Eduardo commended Fr. Santo and Fr. Ezekiel not only for their endurance Pastoral zeal but also for the scholarly formation in Rome which has enriched their ministry and empowered them to guide the faithful with “wisdom and tender care”, praising their contribution together with other priests in reconciliation, peacebuilding, and community self-reliance.
In his letter addressed to the jubilarians, the local ordinary of CDTY quoting Pope Francis reminded them that “Authentic Power is Service”, and echoed Mother Teresa’s words “Peace begins with a smile,” inviting them to continue spreading joy and healing through simple yet profound acts of love.
He also extended heartfelt gratitude to the families of the priests, acknowledging their sacrifice in nurturing these vocations, “we are profoundly grateful to your families, whose sacrifices has nurtured your vocations”.
