By Sr. Laurencila Akinyi, FSSA
TOMBURA, WESTERN EQUATORIA STATE — The Catholic faithful of Tombura greeted their newly appointed Parish Administrator, Rev. Fr. Santino Makuei, with joy and enthusiasm this week following his official installation as Acting Parish Priest of Tombura Town and Administrator of the three Catholic parishes in the area.
The parishes under his care include:
- St. Mary Help of Christians Catholic Parish (Tombura)
- St. John the Evangelist Catholic Parish (Mobaiku)
- St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Parish (Gamonakpe)
Fr. Santino Makuei has served faithfully as a Curate in Tombura for the past two years, dedicating his ministry to serving the spiritual and pastoral needs of the local community. After a period of medical check-up in Uganda, he returns with renewed strength and commitment to lead the parishes amid both hope and challenge.
The reception in Tombura was marked by heartfelt greetings, prayers, and expressions of support from parishioners who see his appointment as a sign of hope and continuity for the Catholic community. Many Catholics in the region described the occasion as a moment of spiritual renewal and unity.
Bishop Barani Eduardo Hiiboro Kussala, head of the Catholic Diocese of Tombura–Yambio, presided over the formal welcoming ceremony. In his remarks, Bishop Hiiboro reflected on the importance of strong pastoral leadership, especially as Tombura emerges from a period marked by violence and social upheaval.
Over the past year, Tombura County has been at the center of violent clashes and instability, resulting in loss of lives, destruction of property, and deep strains on social cohesion. The Catholic Church has repeatedly called for peace, reconciliation, and healing for all people in the region.
In his address, Bishop Hiiboro expressed confidence that Fr. Santino’s leadership will bring fresh energy, compassion, and pastoral care to the faithful of Tombura. He encouraged the community to support their new pastor and to work together for peace, unity, and spiritual growth.
“May your ministry be guided by the Holy Spirit,” the Bishop said, invoking God’s grace upon Fr. Santino as he undertakes the responsibility of shepherding the parishes entrusted to him.
Parishioners shared their joy and optimism, welcoming Fr. Santino with open hearts and prayers for his success. “We are grateful to God for sending us a shepherd who knows our people and walks with us,” one parishioner said during the celebration.
The Catholic Diocese of Tombura–Yambio, which oversees more than 30 parishes across Western Equatoria and serves a Catholic population of over one million faithful, continues to play a central role in both spiritual formation and community support in the region.
As Fr. Santino begins his new role, the faithful of Tombura pray that his ministry will help deepen spiritual life, strengthen community bonds, and contribute to peacebuilding in a region striving for stability and reconciliation.
Welcome, Fr. Santino Makuei! May Christ the Good Shepherd guide your ministry and bless the people you serve.
