By Waure Eddy
The Catholic community in Yambio came together in joy and thanksgiving as Rev. Fr. Charles Mbikoyo celebrated his 18th anniversary of priestly service.
Fr. Mbikoyo was ordained on December 2, 2007, by the late Bishop Joseph Gasi Abangite. Since then, he has devoted his ministry to serving God and the people with humility, dedication, and perseverance.
The celebration included a special dinner in his honor, during which Fr. Mbikoyo reflected on his journey of faith and expressed profound gratitude for God’s guidance throughout his years of service.
“I thank God for what He has done for me since day one when I received my call to become a humble servant of the Highest,” he said.
He also offered heartfelt appreciation to His Lordship Barani Eduardo Hiiboro, recalling how the Bishop’s encouragement had restored his sense of hope and direction in challenging moments. Fr. Mbikoyo extended thanks to the faithful for their ongoing prayers and shared words of advice:
To priests: “Enjoy the first years of your priesthood, because there comes a time when you will have no strength to do all that you would have done earlier.”
To seminarians: “Continue to love your vocation.”
In response to Fr. Mbikoyo’s reflections, Bishop Hiiboro praised his unwavering commitment and resilience.
“His family has been so enriching, bringing up a priest of his type that is rare to find these days. His love for ministry, dedication, and perseverance in bearing wrongs patiently make him a role model of happy priesthood,” Bishop Hiiboro said.
He further described Fr. Mbikoyo’s priestly service as a “right triangle of service,” noting his exceptional ability to balance parish responsibilities with development work.
“The way he resurrects the office of development every day is incredible. The way he balances the work with parish duties is undeniable,” the Bishop added.
The celebration concluded with blessings and warm wishes for Fr. Mbikoyo’s continued strength, joy, and fruitful ministry, as parishioners prayed for God’s grace to guide him in the years ahead.
