Newly Ordained Catholic Priests in Angola Urged to Commit to Promoting Human Dignity

He warned against reducing the priesthood to mere ritualistic functions, saying, “The priesthood must not be confined to the sacristy. It is a public ministry that requires a public witness.”

“Being a Priest is a vocation that must be evident in all areas of life — at home, in church, in the streets, and at work — because it is an identity that accompanies him everywhere,” he added.

Bishop António said that a life of Gospel transparency and consistency upholds the dignity of the priestly ministry. 

“The Priest’s transparency and consistency with the Gospel he proclaims is essential,” he said, urging the Priests-elect to live a public life of holiness, communion, and service, so that the people may recognize them as true pastors and representatives of Christ.

Bishop António emphasized the foundation of prayer in the life of a Priest, highlighting the value of the rosary and devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. 

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“The Priest must pray the rosary and maintain a constant prayer life, which strengthens him spiritually to better serve the community,” he said.

Bishop António described devotion to Mary as not merely tradition but as “a spiritual commitment that gives strength to the ministry,” encouraging the Priests-elect to take Our Lady as “a model of surrender and service to God.”

He also acknowledged the role of the Nossa Senhora de Angola Foundation, which he said has, for 35 years, served as “a bridge between the Brazilian province and the Angolan reality, promoting Franciscan formation, evangelization, and spirituality.”

The Catholic Church leader noted that the foundation is a vital reference point for the spiritual formation and support of friars and Priests in Angola, strengthening them in their journey of faith and mission.

He called on the Priests-elect to always say “yes” to their vocation, even in the face of challenges. 

“The priesthood is not merely a title, but a vocation that demands total dedication, communion with the community, and an ongoing commitment to justice and peace,” Bishop António said.

He urged the people of God to support the new Priests, reminding them that “a Priest needs the community’s support to fulfill his ministry with vigor and faithfulness.”

João Vissesse is an Angolan Journalist with a passion and rich experience in Catholic Church Communication and Media Apostolate.