The Catholic Diocese of Yola has celebrated the Silver Jubilee of three of its priests with a solemn thanksgiving Mass marking 25 years of faithful priestly ministry and dedicated service to God, the Church, and humanity.
The thanksgiving Mass, held at St. Theresa's Catholic Cathedral, Jimeta, Yola, was presided over by the Catholic Bishop of Yola Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Dami Mamza. The celebration attracted priests, religious men and women, parishioners, family members, friends, and well-wishers from within and outside Adamawa State.
The jubilarians—Very Rev. Fr. Oliver Dommanis, Very Rev. Fr. Simeon Saad, and Very Rev. Fr. Charles Damboyi—were ordained 25 years ago and have since distinguished themselves through evangelisation, pastoral care, education, community development, and the spiritual formation of the faithful.
In his homily, Bishop Mamza described the Silver Jubilee as a celebration of God's faithfulness and a testament to the unwavering commitment of the three priests to their sacred vocation. He said attaining 25 years in the priesthood was a remarkable milestone deserving gratitude to God, who has sustained them through the joys and challenges of ministry.
Speaking with journalists after the Mass, Bishop Mamza congratulated the jubilarians for their steadfastness and dedication to the Church's mission. He encouraged them to continue serving with humility, compassion, sacrifice, and love, while urging younger priests to emulate their commitment and perseverance.
Responding on behalf of the jubilarians, Very Rev. Fr. Charles Damboyi thanked Almighty God for the grace to faithfully serve His people over the past 25 years. He also expressed appreciation to Bishop Mamza, fellow priests, religious, parishioners, family members, and friends for their prayers, encouragement, and unwavering support throughout their priestly journey.
Fr. Damboyi said the celebration was not only a personal milestone but also an opportunity to renew their commitment to proclaiming the Gospel, promoting peace, and strengthening the Christian faith within the Diocese and beyond.
The celebration concluded with a colourful reception featuring cultural performances, musical renditions, goodwill messages, and the presentation of gifts to the jubilarians in recognition of their outstanding service to the Church, as the faithful offered prayers for many more fruitful years of ministry in God's vineyard.
No comments:
Post a Comment