Father Elias Sindjalim celebrates 25 years of priesthood in Togo

The celebration was marked by three highlights: a missionary animation and vocational promotion initiative on Sunday, 27^th July, in five parishes in the city of Sokodé, to make our charism known and revive the missionary commitment in the hearts of all the baptised in his diocese of birth; a broadcast on Radio Maria Sainte Thérèse on Monday, 28^th January; and, as the highlight of the celebration, a solemn Eucharistic celebration on Tuesday, 29^th July, the exact day of his ordination.

It was truly a day of celebration when Father was welcomed with songs and dances by his family members, friends, faithful, priests, and religious in a place near the Christ Lumière du Monde parish church in Kpangalam. After the warm welcome, the choir, followed by the procession of priests and the celebrated father, opened a solemn procession towards the church door to celebrate the Eucharist.

Deep gratitude was expressed for his 30 years of religious life (1995) and 25 years of priesthood lived in prayer, self-giving, and enthusiasm.

In his homily, Father Justin-Magloire Naboud began by “thanking God for Father Elias’ life, for his years of priesthood, for his parents, brothers, and sisters.” He then urged the jubilarian to always remain close to the younger generations as a faithful witness, passing on his own flame to them, so that the missionary zeal may continue with hopeful vigour.

In his closing speech, Father Timothée Hounake, provincial superior of the Comboni Missionaries of Togo-Ghana-Benin, on behalf of all the confrères of the province, offered his warm congratulations to Fr. Elias. A relative, on behalf of the family, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all those who, with their presence, prayers, and commitment, contributed to the success of this great day of thanksgiving.

In the same spirit of gratitude, thanksgiving, and appreciation, a Mass was celebrated on 3^rd August at the provincial headquarters in Cacavéli, Lomé, which brought together members of Fr. Elias’ family, the entire local Comboni community, numerous religious men and women, friends of the institute, and many faithful.

The celebration was not only a true “jubilee,” but also an eloquent testimony to the continuity of the mission, carried out by men of faith, deeply rooted in prayer and animated by a sincere and ardent love for the Gospel.

Father Elisée Ocloo, mccj
Head of CAM, Lomé