By Waure Eddy
The Catholic Diocese of Tambura–Yambio has officially commissioned newly appointed priests and deacons following a solemn oath-taking ceremony presided over by His Lordship Bishop Barani Eduardo Hiiboro Kussala at the Bishop’s Residence.
During the ceremony, the appointees pledged their commitment to serve faithfully in their respective pastoral and administrative assignments. The oath underscored truthfulness, ethical conduct, accountability, and full responsibility for duties and decisions entrusted to them.
The clergy further committed themselves to the mission, values, and objectives of the Catholic Church, promising to serve all people fairly and without discrimination, work selflessly and diligently, and uphold Church rules, policies, and ethical standards.
Addressing the gathering, Bishop Hiiboro urged the appointees to protect sensitive information where necessary, act in the best interests of beneficiaries and the wider community, and pursue continuous learning, growth, and excellence in their service. He emphasized the importance of honoring their pledges with sincerity and consistency.
Speaking during the communiqué, the Bishop reminded the gathering that diocesan appointments are not permanent.
“Those people who are going to their departments will not be there forever. We will be rotating them anytime,” Bishop Hiiboro said.
He encouraged the appointees to embrace their new responsibilities with humility and dedication, adding, “As you are going to start your assignments, do it with love for your communities and the people of God, for the betterment of our Diocese.”
Among the key appointments were four parish priests assigned for a three-year term: Fr. Abel Tindi as Parish Priest of St. Joseph Catholic Parish, Maingbangaru; Fr. Simon Mizeridi at St. Peter and Paul Catholic Parish, Naandi; Fr. Joachim Oboi at St. Augustine Catholic Parish, Naagori; and Fr. Thomas Bagbiowia at St. Josephine Bhakita Catholic Parish, Yabongo.
Other appointments included Deacon Emmanuel Uyiayi as Assistant Librarian at the Catholic University of South Sudan, St. John Yambio Campus, for a three-year term, and Fr. Wenengbi Moses on Pastoral Mission (Fide Donum) to the Catholic Diocese of Malakal for three years.
Several priests were appointed as curates for three-month terms: Fr. Simon Mbikoyo to St. Don Bosco Catholic Parish, Manguo; Fr. Yangadapai Paul Peter to Nakindo Sene Catholic Parish, Nzara; and Fr. Oliver Nwanga Chinedu to Assumption of Our Lady Catholic Parish, Riimenze.
Diaconal pastoral assignments were also announced. Deacon Mabu Pascal was assigned to Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Parish, Yambio; Deacon Luis Zungumbara to St. Mary Mother of God Catholic Parish, Yambio, for three months; Deacon John Bangasu to the Catholic Diocese of Malakal for three years; Deacon Fortunato Kpudu to St. Luka the Evangelist Catholic Parish, Yangiri, for three months; Deacon Solomon Kaosoluchukwa Ette to St. John Paul Institute of Philosophy (JPPS) for three months; Deacon Emmanuel Leo Ayiayi to Christ the King Catholic Parish, Nabagu, for three months; and Deacon John Atovura Francis to Regina Mondi Catholic Parish, Ezo, for three months. Deacon Pascal Mabu was also appointed Deputy Pontifical Mission Societies for a three-year term.
The commissioning ceremony brought together diocesan staff, priests, deacons, and support personnel, reflecting unity and shared mission within the Diocese of Tambura–Yambio.
The Diocese expressed confidence that the new appointees will carry out their responsibilities with integrity, pastoral zeal, and deep love for the people they are called to serve.
