Portuguese-born Spiritan Bishop in São Tomé e Príncipe Dies Aged 94

He was ordained a Priest in September 1957, at the Torre d'Aguilha Seminary.

In 1959, Bishop Ribias travelled to Angola, where he would dedicate 25 years of his life serving in various missions and capacities.

Following Angola’s independence, he took on the directorship of Radio Ecclesia, Angola's Catholic broadcaster, ensuring its mission continued until its nationalization in 1978. 

He later served as Secretary General of the Bishops' Conference of Angola and São Tomé and Príncipe (CEAST).

In 1980, he was appointed Rector of the Christ the King Seminary in Huambo.

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In 1981, he survived a landmine explosion that left him seriously injured, requiring months of treatment in Portugal. He later returned to Angola to continue the mission of evangelization.

In December 1984, Pope St. John Paul II appointed him Bishop of São Tomé and Príncipe. He was consecrated Bishop in February 1985 at Our Lady of Grace Cathedral.

In his maiden speech following his Episcopal Consecration, he is quoted as saying, “Brothers and sisters, here I am your Bishop! Accept me as I am, with my physical, intellectual, and spiritual weaknesses. I bring no pre-made plans. Together, we will shape the path ahead for the good of all.”

His Episcopal Ministry was marked by a commitment to social and pastoral work. Bishop Ribas dedicated 72 years to the Spiritan missionary life and over half a century to serving the Church in Africa.

He retired in December 2006 at the age of 75. In 2015, due to declining health, he moved to Fraião, Portugal, where he received care at the Anima Una Home until his demise on February 2, the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord in the temple and the World Day for Consecrated Life; and Venerable Libermann Day.