Newly Ordained Priests, Deacons in Angola Urged to Foster Church’s Evangelizing Mission

The Angolan member of the Congregation of the Holy Spirit (Spiritans/Holy Ghost Fathers/CSSp.) noted that “being a Missionary of Reconciliation requires a life rooted in prayer, meditation on the Word of God, and active charity. The priestly ministry is one of sanctification and reconciliation for the unity of the Body of Christ.”

He invited the Deacons-elect and Priests-elect to join the voice of Pope Leo XIV, who began his pontificate on May 18 with a call for “a united Church, a sign of communion and leaven of reconciliation for the world.”

Archbishop Mbilingi also recalled the Holy Father’s words at the closing of the Jubilee of Priests, where he reaffirmed the desire to “see a reconciled Church, transformed by the love of Christ, walking with humility and steadfastness in faith.”

The Archbishop called on the new ordinands to be generous in service, saying, “Be fervent in celebrating the sacraments, in adoration, and in ministry. Give your time and energy without excuses or exclusions.”

To the 14 Deacons-elect, the Catholic Church leader urged total dedication to the service of the altar, the Word, and charity. 

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“You will be called to proclaim the Gospel. Believe what you read, teach what you believe, and live what you teach. Evangelize with humility, fidelity, perseverance, and closeness to the people. Before preaching, learn to listen,” he said.

Archbishop Mbilingi explained that the Diaconate requires “a willing heart, an irreproachable life, and total dedication to the Church and to brothers and sisters.” 

He called them to live “the Mission with joy, serving all, walking in truth, and imitating Christ in humble service.” 

The Archbishop advised them to “be men of prayer, good servants in the Spirit, and authentic ministers of the Word,” with particular attention to the witness of life. 

“Keep the mystery of faith with a pure conscience,” he exhorted, warning that “the credibility of your ministry depends on your consistency between what you proclaim and how you live.” 

The 71-year-old Catholic Archbishop offered words of hope and confidence to the 19 ordinands, affirming, “The Church counts on you. Do not be mere ministers, but witnesses. More than speaking, live the Gospel. Let each of your actions be a sign of Christ’s love. The world needs holy, upright, and courageous priests and deacons. May the Spirit guide you in this mission.”

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