By Paite Calistus
The Catholic Diocese of Tombura-Yambio celebrated a historic milestone on Saturday as Bishop Eduardo Hiiboro Kussala officially opened the St. John Paul II Institute of Philosophy Major Seminary at Yabongo in Yambio County.
The inauguration began with a solemn Holy Mass at Our Lady of Mercy Chapel, where Bishop Hiiboro urged seminarians to embrace their vocation with dedication and love.
Call for Prayer and Dedication
In his homily, the Bishop emphasized the importance of beginning the academic year grounded in prayer.
“It is very important to begin the academic year by invoking the Holy Spirit to take control till successful ending,” Bishop Hiiboro said.
He reminded the seminarians that the seminary is fully recognized and registered with the government, underscoring its vital role in forming consecrated men for the diocese. He encouraged them to carry out their responsibilities faithfully, describing their formation as a sacred trust.
Support from Local Authorities
At the conclusion of Mass, Bishop Hiiboro blessed Yambio County Commissioner Hon. Angelo Bakote, asking for God’s guidance in his leadership.
Commissioner Bakote, in his remarks, encouraged the seminarians to view their formation not as a burden but as preparation for life’s challenges.
“God has called you to follow Christ. Don’t follow the lifestyle of non-seminarians; just always remember why you are in the seminary,” he advised.
The Commissioner assured the diocese of his commitment to ensuring security so seminarians can pursue their studies without fear.
Church-Government Partnership
Fr. Vairi Natale, the seminary rector, expressed gratitude to Bishop Hiiboro for his vision and dedication to priestly formation. He also commended Commissioner Bakote for his humility in attending the opening ceremony, highlighting the importance of collaboration between the Church and local government.
The event concluded with a symbolic presentation of gifts by the seminary administration to both Bishop Hiiboro and Commissioner Bakote, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the diocese’s mission to nurture future priests.
The St. John Paul II Institute of Philosophy Major Seminary will serve as a key institution for priestly formation in the Catholic Diocese of Tombura-Yambio.
