Familia Comboniana 853 - July-August 2026

THE HOLY SEE

Appointment of Mons Manghesteab Tesfamariam

On 1^st June, the Holy Father renewed the appointment of Msgr. Manghesteab Tesfamariam—a Comboni missionary and the Archeparch of Asmara (Eritrea)—as a member of the Dicastery for the Eastern Churches. We, the Comboni family, welcome this news with joy and gratitude; we are delighted and honoured by the esteem the Holy Father has reaffirmed for Msgr. Mangheastab and, through him, for the entire Institute in its service to the universal Church. We accompany Msgr. Mangheastab with our affection, fraternal closeness, and prayers, asking the Lord to sustain him in this role.

Father Tesfaye appointed the Archeparch of Addis Ababa

On 12^th June 2026—the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus—the Holy Father, Leo XIV, arranged for a change in leadership for the Archeparchy of Addis Ababa, entrusting its pastoral governance to the current auxiliary bishop, the Comboni missionary Tesfaye Tadesse Gebresilasie.

The prelate succeeds Cardinal Berhaneyesus Demerew Souraphiel, who turns 78 this coming July and has led the Church in Addis Ababa since June 1999.

The new metropolitan, originally from Harar, entered the Comboni Missionaries of the Heart of Jesus in 1986 and was ordained a priest in 1995. He studied theology at the Pontifical Gregorian University and obtained a Licentiate in Islamic Studies from the Pontifical Institute for Arabic and Islamic Studies in Rome. He also completed a training course at the Pontifical Salesian University in Rome.

He served as parish priest and director of the Comboni School in Haro Wato (in his home country). He held various roles within his religious institute, serving as its Superior General from 2015 until 6^th November 2024, when he was appointed auxiliary bishop of the Archeparchy of Addis Ababa. He received episcopal ordination on 2^nd February 2025.

The General Council and all members of the Comboni Institute congratulate him and express their joy regarding this new and delicate ministry, assuring him of their enduring affection. They also declare themselves honoured by the Holy Father’s decision and wish to assure Msgr. Tesfaye of their constant prayers, that the Holy Spirit and the Heart of Jesus may sustain and guide him in fulfilling the mission entrusted to him.

GENERAL ADMINISTRATION

General Notes of the 44^th consulta of June 2026

Appointments

During the June consulta, the General Council made the following appointments:

►Formation

• Father Mughendi Mwangulo Anatole (CN), as novice master of Sarh novitiate as from 1^st July 2026, replacing Father Kamanga Mutombo Stéphane.
• Father Percassi Vincenzo (I), as formator and superior of the Casavatore scholasticate as from 1^st July 2026, replacing Father Stefano Giudici.

►General Administration

• Father John Ikundu, as General Secretary of the Mission as from 1^st July 2026, replacing Father González Galarza Fernando.
• Father José da Silva Vieira, as the person in charge of the communications office as from 1^st July 2026, replacing Father Arlindo Ferreira Pinto.
• Brother Dzinekou Yawovi Jonas, as head of the Office for Development and Sustainability, and a member of the general economate and the council for finance as from 1^st July 2026.

The General Council expresses its sincere gratitude to the confrères who have hitherto carried out these services with such dedication and generosity, and extends to those newly appointed its best wishes for the ministry entrusted to them.

Meeting of the Comboni Family

The customary meeting of the Comboni Family took place in Rome, at the Generalate of the Comboni Missionary Sisters, on 30^th and 31^st May 2026. The first day was dedicated to the theme of interculturality and the challenges it poses for community life, strategic planning, and formation. A need emerged to promote greater internationalisation within provinces and communities and to strengthen the intercultural dimension at all stages of formation, including ongoing formation. Emphasis was also placed on the importance of a spirituality of incarnation and a deeper internalisation of the Comboni charism. The community was recognised as a privileged setting for learning and practising interculturality.

The second day featured updates from the various Institutes and a discussion regarding the Comboni Family’s participation in the gathering in Belém (Brazil) for COP30 (November 2025). Additionally, an Investment Values Charter—inspired by the Church’s social doctrine and recent Magisterial documents—was presented, with the aim of promoting resource management that is ethical, transparent, and consistent with the Institutes’ charism and mission.

Finally, several potential areas for joint action were identified; these will be further explored by the organising committee.

The next meeting will be held in Verona on 29^th and 30^th May 2027.

Guidelines for the numerically small formative presences of scholasticates (“formative communities”)

Following the opening of several formation communities—in implementation of Chapter decision CA ‘22, no. 26.6 (“To reopen one Scholasticate and leave to the General Council the decision to open, where necessary, small formation units for scholastics—accompanied by a confrère—within Comboni communities, in order to integrate prayer, study, community life, and pastoral service”)—the General Council deemed it appropriate to provide guidelines to support these new formation settings, which differ from traditional scholasticates.

To this end, a document containing these guidelines has been approved ad experimentum for a period of one year. It will be made available to the relevant formation communities, Circumscription superiors, scholasticate formators, the CIF, and the novitiates.

Journeys by the General Council

Father Luigi Fernando Codianni

From 18^th to 24^th July – Portugal (Lisbon) – Meeting of European provincial superiors (with Father Radol)
From 13^th to 25^th August – Mozambique – Spiritual exercises and celebrations for the 80^th anniversary of our presence in Mozambique
From 26^th August to 3^rd September – Togo (Lomé) – Meeting with the ASCAF Commission for unification (with Father Sindjalim)
From 6^th to 17^th September – Brazil (São Paulo) – Meeting of the BS/CO/EC/PE Commission for unification (with Father Domingues)
From 18^th to 27^th September – Mexico (Mexico City) – Meeting with the M/PCA Commission for unification (with Father Domingues)
From 5^th to 9^th October – DSP – Provincial assembly (with Father Radol)

Fr. David Costa Domingues

From 19^th to 27^th July – Certosa di Pesio (Cuneo) – Spiritual exercises
From 2^nd to 8^th August – Sambuca Pistoiese (PT) – Preaching spiritual exercises for the Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate (SFI)
From 12^th to 31^st August – Portugal
From 6^th to 17^th September – Brazil (São Paulo) – Meeting with the BS/CO/EC/PE Commission for unification (with Fr General)
From 18^th to 26^th September – Mexico (Mexico City) – Meeting of the Mexico/PCA Commission for unification (with Fr General)

Fr. Austine Radol Odjambo

From 6^th to 19^th July – Spain – Visit
From 20^th to 27^th July – Portugal (Lisbon) – Meeting of the provincial superiors of Europe on unification (with Fr General)
From 1^st to 10^th September – Eritrea – Visit
From 12^th to 21^st September – Ethiopia – Meetings of the EAST and NORTH APDESAM Commissions for unification (with Brother Lamana)
From 22^nd to 30^th September – Malawi-Zambia – Meeting of the SOUTH APDESAM Commission for unification (with Brother Lamana)
From 5^th to 9^th October – DSP – Provincial assembly (with Fr General)

Fr. Sindjtoim Essognimam Elias

From 9^th to 25^th August – Togo
From 26^th August to 2^nd September – TGB – Meeting with the ASCAF Commission for unification

Bro Lamana Consola Toberto

From 19^th to 27^th July – Certosa di Pesio (Cuneo – IT - spiritual exercises
From 12^th to 17^th September – Ethiopia (Addis Ababa) – Meetings with the EAST AND NORTH APDESAM Commissions for unification (with Father Radol)
From 27^th to 30^th September – Malawi/Zambia (Lusaka) – Meeting with the SOUTH APDESAM Commission (with Father Radol)

Next Consultas

Dates of the next general Consultas:

• October Consulta (from 12^th to 30^th)
• December Consulta (from 7^th to 12^th)

First Professions

Name / Circ. of Origin	Place	Date
Sc. Agaba Leonard / U	Namugongo	02/05/2026
Sc. Amanuel Ermias Erango / ET	Namugongo	02/05/2026
Sc. Atoma Samuel / U	Namugongo	02/05/2026
Sc. Damianal Steven / MZ	Namugongo	02/05/2026
Sc. Gondwe Fiskani Juweka / MZ	Namugongo	02/05/2026
Sc. Hassen Mohammed Ojulu / ET	Namugongo	02/05/2026
Sc. Josepari Odek Wilson Gitano / SS	Namugongo	02/05/2026
Sc. Katerega Oscar Lubega / U	Namugongo	02/05/2026
Sc. Le Mihn Nhat (Joseph) / A	Quezon City	02/05/2026
Sc. Mumbere Daniel / U	Namugongo	02/05/2026
Bro. Munguacel Edison / U	Namugongo	02/05/2026
Sc. Mwambila Sakala Michael / MZ	Namugongo	02/05/2026
Sc. Nguyen Thien Nhan Matthew / A	Quezon City	02/05/2026
Sc. Onyala David Vincent Bitu / EGSD	Namugongo	02/05/2026
Sc. Onyango Paul Modo Guido / SS	Namugongo	02/05/2026
Sc. Parvini Emmanuel Giuseppe Francesco / EGSD	Namugongo	02/05/2026
Sc. Phiri David / MZ	Namugongo	02/05/2026
Sc. Samuel Isayas Addise / ET	Namugongo	02/05/2026
Sc. Sewagegn Daniel Degfa / ET	Namugongo	02/05/2026
Sc. Tran Ngoc Am (Joseph) / A	Quezon City	02/05/2026
Sc. Badagbon Koffi Pierre Emmanuel / TGB	Sarh	10/05/2026
Sc. Bessane-Rabbi Ghislain / RCA	Sarh	10/05/2026
Sc. Dadabor Waklatsi Kodzo Augustin / TGB	Sarh	10/05/2026
Sc. Datsomon Kokou Hervé Jean / TGB	Sarh	10/05/2026
Sc. Djagombaide Bodin / TCH	Sarh	10/05/2026
Sc. Djigbe Hilaire / TCH	Sarh	10/05/2026
Sc. Katembo Siwako Magloire / CN	Sarh	10/05/2026
Sc. Makaba Nkuanga Jean-Marie / CN	Sarh	10/05/2026
Sc. Mbusa Ise-Ngoma Donatien / CN	Sarh	10/05/2026
Sc. Muhindo Makelele Wasingya Charles / CN	Sarh	10/05/2026
Sc. Mumbere Kyusi Shukuru / CN	Sarh	10/05/2026
Sc. Mungufeni Aloma Martin / CN	Sarh	10/05/2026
Sc. Munuma Wamuthanrika Reagan / CN	Sarh	10/05/2026
Sc. Oussa Maxime / TGB	Sarh	10/05/2026
Sc. Savi Komlan Rémi / TGB	Sarh	10/05/2026
Sc. Avitud Guerrero Cesar Adrian / M	Xochimilco	16/05/2026
Sc. Fuentes Mejia Luis Enrique / PCA	Xochimilco	16/05/2026
Sc. Ortega Trinidad Aristoteles Hegel / M	Xochimilco	16/05/2026

Confrères admitted to perpetual profession
and priestly ordination

Name	Circ. of Orig.
Sc. Aguiar Vignon Michel	(TGB)
Sc. Amado Komlan Gademon Prosper	(TGB)
Sc. Apetokou Kossivi Paul	(TGB)
Sc. Asmare Gawo Ghebre	(ET)
Sc. Biruk Girma Ababa Haileyesus	(ET)
Sc. Davon Kossigan Sylvestre	(TGB)
Sc. Dzikunu Winfred Etse	(TGB)
Sc. Felizardo Azevedo	(MO)
Sc. Kambale Kasoro Meschack	(CN)
Sc. Kasereka Mwami Charles	(CN)
Sc. Konosi Atambanakabange André	(CN)
Sc. Kpogo Komi Jules Ametefe Aime	(TGB)
Sc. Mamadou Cristal	(RCA)
Sc. Mumbere Kavuthe Delphin	(CN)
Sc. Nteyamba Ilundu Etienne	(CN)
Sc. Nyiker Changjwok AbDalla	(SS)
Sc. Ocen Moris Paul	(U)
Sc. Ouma Joseph	(U)
Sc. Saúl Arnaldo Bazo	(MO)
Sc. Twesigye Andrew	(U)
Bro. Pedrito Mario	(MO)

Perpetual professions

Bro. Alfredo Monteiro De Sousa	São Paulo/BR	02/05/2026
Bro. Pedrito Mario	Chama/Z	21/06/2026

Holy Redeemer Guild

July                  01 – 15 KE           16 – 31 M
August             01 – 15 MO          16 – 31 MZ
September       01 – 15 NAP         16 – 30 PCA

Prayer Intentions

July

We pray for the victims of trafficking that the Lord break the chains of their slavery, and that, through the intercession of Saint Daniel Comboni and Saint Josephine Bakhita, we may all fight with courage and tenacity against this scourge. Lord, hear us.

August

For all those forced to leave their homelands to save their lives: that they may find acceptance and respect, and that society may address the root causes of migration. Lord, hear us.

September

We pray that the Lord of life may give us eyes to contemplate the beauty of creation, hearts to care for it with love, and hands to serve it with justice, renewing in us the Spirit who makes all things new. Lord, hear us.

Comboni liturgical calendar

JULY

28

Blessed Joseph Abrosoli

Memorial

SEPTEMBER

9

St. Peter Claver, priest, Patron of the Institute

Solemnity

Significant anniversaries

AUGUST

2	St. Frumentius, Bishop (*)	Ethiopia
15	Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary	RSA (S. Africa)
23	St. Rose of Lima	Peru, Chile
28	St. Augustine, bishop and doctor of the Church	Kenya

^(*) The Roman martyrology mentions him on 20 July

SEPTEMBER

9	Saint Peter Claver	Chad, Colombia
14	Exaltation of the Holy Cross	Feast

Publications

ADOM ESSOSOLAN JEAN-MICHEL, Vivre et Servir, pp. 100 + I-XII, Togo, January 2026. To mark the twelfth anniversary of his priestly ordination and the sixteenth of his religious profession, Father Adom Essosolam Jean-Michel has compiled his human and missionary experiences—lived between 2015 and 2021 in the Central African Republic (CAR)—into the volume Vivre et Servir (“Living and Serving”). That period was marked by the horrors of war and suffering, but also by extraordinary acts of solidarity and faith.

Born in June 1985 in Pya (Togo), Father Adom was ordained a priest on August 8, 2015, in Lomé. He holds a Licentiate in Theology and Philosophy and a diploma in Sociology. He served as a parochial vicar at Notre-Dame de la Liesse parish in Grimari, CAR, and was responsible for the diocesan Catechetical Commission and the Biblical Apostolate. Having returned to Togo in 2021, he is currently in charge of vocations promotion.

“I realised that mission is not merely a set of actions, but a presence—with and for others—in the name of Christ,” he writes in the introduction.

Presence, accompaniment, and compassion are the three words that sum up his experience, as well as the heart of the Comboni Missionaries’ mission wherever they serve.

CONGO

Some good news from areas of conflict.

Father Eliseo Tacchella describes the situation at his parish (in the Isiro area), which is currently sheltering numerous displaced people, primarily from Ndubala and surrounding villages. These individuals fled following attacks by armed men that sowed fear and insecurity throughout the region. His account reveals a situation that remains highly uncertain. Some residents are considering returning to their villages, while others make only brief trips back to retrieve food and essential supplies. Many families, however, do not yet feel safe enough to return home permanently.

The displaced people’s stay at the parish is lasting longer than initially anticipated. Consequently, the community is doing more than simply providing temporary shelter; it is also striving to involve these guests in parish life and various community activities.

Father Eliseo’s account is deeply pastoral in tone: alongside the tangible challenges regarding safety, sustenance, and an uncertain future, Father Tacchella invokes the Gospel message of trust and hope. His parish thus stands as a place of welcome and support for people marked by fear and suffering, yet striving to look toward the future with renewed confidence.

DEUTSCHSPRACHIGE PROVINZ

The ministry of lector conferred on three students from Graz

The visit of Father Roberto Turyamureeba, Provincial Superior, to the Graz-Messendorf formation community included a small yet significant moment on Trinity Sunday, 31^st May 2026: the conferral of the ministry of lector upon three scholastics—Jesús Daniel Osuna Félix (Mexico), Wilson Wairimu Njoroge (Kenya), and Blondel Ilolube Tandir (Democratic Republic of the Congo).

During the Mass at the Graz-Messendorf church, this brief rite was a special experience for many of the faithful. In his homily, Father Roberto spoke of the mystery of the Trinity, emphasising that only God can reveal who He is—a revelation made manifest through creation and the Scriptures of both the Old and New Testaments. Furthermore, Church history is rich in individuals who have left us clear testimonies of lived faith—some we have met in person, others we have come to know through reading or hearing about them.

“From this day forward, through your ministry as lectors, you are officially entrusted with proclaiming this Triune God. In every biblical passage you proclaim, a concrete aspect of God’s work and essence will be made present,” Father Roberto noted, encouraging the three scholastics as they prepare for their future priestly and missionary ministry.

He continued: “The Word of God must play a central role in the lives of both the proclaimer and the listener during a celebration. Saint Daniel Comboni was convinced that wherever the Gospel is planted, it transforms hearts. Therefore, dear Daniel, Wilson, and Blondel, embrace this precious service—especially during the celebration of the Eucharist, the sacraments, and other liturgical rites. And remember: effective proclamation requires clarity, inner conviction, and a compelling tone.” Addressing the concelebrants, Father Roberto asked them to accompany and support the three scholastics—through counsel and concrete examples—in their new service within the Graz-Messendorf community and the wider Graz-Southeast pastoral area: “Support them with your attention, your prayers, and your openness, so that they may proclaim the Word of God effectively, understandably, and clearly. Help ensure that the Good News is conveyed in language that is contemporary and relevant to real life—and, above all, that it is truly lived out by them.”

This was followed by the rite of conferring the ministry of lector upon the three scholastics, featuring the Church’s solemn prayer and the presentation of the lectionary. At the conclusion of the Mass, each of the three scholastics was presented with a certificate affirming the ministry they had received.

The parish community participated in the celebration with great enthusiasm. The “Schola St. Peter” choir from the mother parish of Graz-St. Peter provided solemn and dignified musical accompaniment for the Eucharistic celebration.

Words of thanks from the parish council president, Ms Monika Greiner, and announcements by Ms Rosemarie Krisper complemented the Provincial Superior’s address. Ms Greiner particularly highlighted a thought from the homily: “God accompanies us. He watches over us, is with us and within us, and leads us deeper into the mystery of the Most Holy Trinity.”

During the subsequent reception—featuring drinks and celebration cakes prepared by the Graz-Messendorf chaplaincy youth group—many community members congratulated the three scholastics on their new ministry. They offered many good wishes for the journey ahead as they prepare for priestly ministry as Comboni Missionaries. (Father Roberto Turyamureeba, MCCJ, and Father Michael Zeitz, MCCJ)

EGYPT-SUDAN

Sudan – Signs of hope in times of trial

Despite many difficulties, the journey of renewal for our missions in Khartoum continues. The Comboni community in Masalma—an historic district of Omdurman—is overseeing the restoration of the parish and, for the past few weeks, the renovation of Comboni College in the capital’s city centre, alongside work on the Bahri community, which houses the provincial headquarters.

Alongside these structural projects, our confrères are dedicated to the pastoral care of eleven parishes in the Khartoum metropolitan area. In many of these, Christian communities have been able to resume sacramental life after long months of isolation and suffering. This is an encouraging sign: hope is re-emerging, sustained by the daily commitment of many men and women who refuse to give in to the wounds of war.

Yet, alongside these signs of renewal, there are also grounds for deep concern. The conflict continues to affect vast areas of the country, and reports from North Kordofan (around El Obeid) and South Kordofan (in the Nuba Mountains) remain alarming.

On 19^th June, Father Yohanna Al Amin, a diocesan priest, was killed alongside two associates from the Holy Cross parish in Kauda. This incident occurred against a backdrop of intense local tensions, rivalries between armed groups, and struggles for territorial control. While the exact circumstances of the attack remain unclear, the event serves as yet another reminder of the fragility of the situation in many regions of Sudan.

Faced with these challenges, the road to a just and lasting peace still appears long. And yet, even in the places most scarred by violence, small but significant signs of hope continue to emerge. It is from these signs that our missionary commitment begins anew, in the certainty that the Gospel of peace and reconciliation continues to bear fruit, even in the most difficult situations. (Father Diego Dalle Carbonare, MCCJ)

ITALIA

Letter from the Provincial Council to the confrères at the start of a discernment process regarding the future of our presence in Italy.

The Provincial Council of the Comboni Missionaries in Italy has sent a letter to confrères initiating a process of communal discernment regarding the province’s future, with a particular focus on redefining ministries and reorganising communities. This process takes place against the backdrop of the transformations affecting religious life in Europe and also looks toward the prospect of a future Unified European Province.

The letter begins by examining the contemporary reality, marked by conflicts, inequalities, migration, environmental threats, and the growing marginalisation of many people. In this context, the Comboni Missionaries reaffirm their commitment to maintaining their missionary work in Italy, in alignment with the guidelines of the 2023–2028 Six-Year Plan.

However, the Provincial Council acknowledges certain challenges directly affecting the province: the declining number of confrères, an ageing demographic, and the difficulties some communities face in sustaining meaningful fraternal life and an impactful apostolic presence. Faced with this situation, the Council emphasises that change does not represent a retreat, but rather a form of creative fidelity to the Comboni charism and mission.

Consequently, a reflection has been launched regarding the province’s future configuration: the number of communities, their geographical distribution, and the ministries to be consolidated, developed, or potentially concluded. The priority areas identified are: welcoming migrants; Justice, Peace, and Integrity of Creation (JPIC); youth outreach; communication and media; missionary animation; and shared ministerial responsibility within the Comboni Family.

The Council invites all confrères to participate actively in this process. Over the coming months, the province’s three zones—North-West, North-East, and Central-South—will engage in communal discernment, involving individual local communities. Specific contributions will also be provided by the secretariats for Mission, Formation, and Finance.

The work will be guided by key Institute documents, including the Document on Ministry, the 2022 Chapter Acts, the Six-Year Plan, and the General Council’s letter Andiamo Oltre (“Let’s Go Beyond”). The goal is to identify which current presences and activities are most generative from a missionary perspective and to determine where personnel and energy should be concentrated.

This process of discernment also includes the possibility of closing certain communities, should this prove necessary to strengthen other presences deemed more significant and sustainable. The Council acknowledges the sensitivity of these decisions—which affect locations rich in history and human bonds—yet believes that postponing choices that have become necessary would risk further weakening the missionary witness.

Input from the zones and secretariats will feed into the Provincial Assembly scheduled for Verona from November 16 to 20, 2026. This gathering will serve as an opportunity to gather and compare the reflections that have emerged, thereby guiding the Provincial Council’s future decisions and enabling a continued, courageous, and hopeful commitment to a creative fidelity to the charism of Saint Daniel Comboni.

MOZAMBIQUE

First Comboni priest from Carapira

On 23^rd May, the parish of Carapira, in the Diocese of Nacala, marked a historic day with the priestly ordination of Father Fidélio Artur, the first Comboni priest from this area. The event holds special significance, coming nearly 78 years after the arrival of Comboni missionaries in Carapira, where the mission was founded in 1948.

Born in 1995 in Micolene, Fidélio completed his formation by studying theology in Kinshasa. Following his perpetual profession in July 2025 and his ordination as a deacon a few months later, he was ordained a priest by Bishop Alberto Vera Arejula of Nacala, before a crowd of the faithful who had gathered to share in this moment of joy and grace.

In his homily, the bishop noted that the priesthood is a call to service and love, urging the newly ordained priest to live out his ministry with faithfulness, a spirit of prayer, and missionary zeal. His family members also emphasised that this vocation is a gift from God to the entire Church, rather than merely a personal achievement.

Father Fidélio will soon begin his missionary ministry in South Sudan, his first assignment as a Comboni priest. Father Zębik Krzysztof Adam, the Provincial Administrator for South Sudan, was also present at the ordination and assured everyone that “Father Fidélio will be in good hands.” Addressing the newly ordained priest, he added, “We are waiting for you. Come with courage, patience, and humility, ready to love the people you will work with from the very start.”

Muanza Celebrates – Father Carlos Máquina ordained as the first Comboni priest from the area

Saturday, 30^th May, was an unforgettable day for the village of Muanza, marking the priestly ordination of Carlos Joaquim Jorge Máquina—the first priest and first Comboni missionary from St. Peter the Apostle parish in Muanza, within the Archdiocese of Beira.

The Eucharistic celebration took place in the hall of the Muanza Industrial and Commercial Institute and was presided over by Msgr. António Manuel Bogaio Constantino, MCCJ, Bishop of Caia—his first ordination since taking office. Concelebrating with him were Father José Joaquim Luís Pedro, MCCJ, Provincial Superior, and Father Izaias Machanguira, the parish administrator. Civil and religious authorities were also in attendance, along with a great number of the faithful.

Msgr. António began his homily with a powerful statement: “When God calls, He means business.” He explained: “The priesthood is not a matter of power or prestige, but a mystery of generous dedication to God. For this reason, the people expect the priest to be authentic—leading a life that is morally beyond reproach, clear, and transparent—and ready to serve.” Addressing the ordinand, he added, “The people expect closeness and holiness from you. You must love the poor and fall in love with the mission. Our founder, Comboni, used to say: ‘The missionary would like to have a thousand lives for the mission.’ You do not become a priest for yourself, but for others. Be a source of hope for the sick, for wounded families, and for the marginalised... Follow the example of Mary of Nazareth: like her, bring life, joy, and hope. Do not waste time on the Internet. Use your time to meet people and visit catechists and communities. Always remember that if you are becoming a priest today, it is because, years ago, ‘Someone’ passed by here and called you.” He then added: “You will not be spared suffering. You will experience moments of pain and loneliness… You will shed tears that the people will not see. You will endure dark nights. But the Lord will always be with you.”

After describing the day as «a moment of great joy that crowns eighty years of Comboni presence in Mozambique», Father José Joaquim said to Carlos: «You are the fruit of this history. Be a living embodiment of the Comboni charism. Always preserve the joy of service, for a sad priest convinces no one. Learn to be a brother before a leader… Your life must be your most important sermon. And do not keep the Gospel locked away in a drawer; take it out into the streets».

The diocesan clergy of Beira, represented by Father Adelino Fernandes, also joyfully welcomed this first priestly ordination in the parish, describing it as “a milestone in the history of Muanza, a living sign of God’s presence.” Indeed, from the establishment of the diocese in 1940 and the official erection of Saint Peter the Apostle parish in 2004 by the Fathers of the Sacred Hearts—followed by the arrival of diocesan priests in 2014—the Archdiocese of Beira had not yet seen a priestly ordination take place in this parish. The priest also reminded the newly ordained man: “Remember your motto: may this dwelling be loved and be a ‘place of peace’ for those who suffer.”

The Beira delegation of the Conferência dos Institutos Religiosos de Moçambique (CIRMO)—the body that brings together and coordinates consecrated religious life in the country—represented by Father António Dança Roda, expressed deep joy at seeing new labourers rise up in the Lord’s vineyard. They expressed the hope that Father Carlos Joaquim’s priesthood would be marked by fidelity to the Gospel, fraternal communion, and missionary passion. They also expressed gratitude to Father Carlos’s parents, describing them as his “first seminary” due to their tireless nights of prayer.

The newly ordained priest also spoke, quoting Saint Thérèse of the Child Jesus: “Love is repaid by love alone” and added that his joy was hard to contain. After thanking God, he reiterated his gratitude to Msgr. Constantino for agreeing to ordain the first priest from Muanza and acknowledged that this moment was the fruit of the work of many people to whom he felt deeply indebted. He told his parents, “The Lord is very proud of you.” He concluded by acknowledging the grace of God’s merciful gaze and affirming that the priesthood is not a finishing line, but the beginning of a new stage.

Maria Almija Rodrigues Pulseira, the administrator of Muanza, highlighted the great significance of the ceremony for all the local residents, noting that “a son of this land has received the grace and honour of becoming a priest.” Addressing the newly ordained priest, she said: “Live your mission with humility, wisdom, a spirit of service, and fidelity to the teachings of Christ. May your priestly ministry be a source of reconciliation, peace, and the strengthening of faith for all the faithful.”

The people expressed their gratitude to God for being able to witness such a “great blessing” and sang Inhaxa dza mwana komana (“thanks for this son”), acknowledging that all is God’s grace and hoping for further vocations. (Father Sérgio Mário Vilanculo, MCCJ)

SOUTH AFRICA

Father John Bosco appointed as the new parish priest of Saint Anne’s in Johannesburg

On Sunday,31^st May 2026, the parish community of St. Anne’s in the Belgravia neighbourhood of Johannesburg joyfully welcomed its new parish priest, Father John Bosco Mubangizi—the first Comboni missionary appointed to lead the parish. His official installation took place during a solemn Eucharistic celebration presided over by Father John Baptist Keraryo Opargiw, the Provincial Superior, and concelebrated by seven priests.

During the rite of taking possession, Father Joe Pich—Dean of the Central Deanery of the Archdiocese of Johannesburg and representative of Archbishop Steven Brislin—exhorted Father John Bosco to “serve and love the people of God so that they may become authentic disciples of Christ.” The Archbishop’s letter of appointment, outlining his rights and duties in service to the Christian community, was also read aloud.

In his homily, inspired by the Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity, Father John Baptist highlighted the value of unity and communion: “God’s unity is a model for us all. It invites us to live in harmony, respecting the dignity of every person. In this way, we make God’s love and unity visible in the world.” Applying the Word of God to the reality of the parish, he added: “This is our parish, our Church, and our common home. Whether we are South Africans, African immigrants, or members of the Portuguese-speaking community, we all belong to the same family.”

Referring to recent incidents of xenophobia in South Africa, Father John Baptist emphasised that “rejecting others because of their differences is contrary to God’s plan. Exclusion wounds deeply, because every human being needs relationships and a sense of belonging.” At the conclusion of the celebration, Father John Bosco expressed his gratitude to God for the mission entrusted to him and thanked all those who had supported him along his journey. He offered special words of appreciation to Father Letsie Moshoeshoe, the outgoing parish priest, “for eleven years of faithful service and for the solid pastoral foundations left to the community.”

Addressing the faithful, the new parish priest asked for three gifts: “Your prayers, your patience, and your cooperation.” In return, he pledged “availability, respect, and service carried out with the humility and love of Christ, the Good Shepherd.”

Finally, Father Letsie thanked Father John Bosco and the Comboni Institute for accepting responsibility for the parish, offering his successor best wishes and invoking the Lord’s blessing upon him.

The celebration was enlivened by hymns in various African languages ​​and in Portuguese, reflecting the cultural richness and diversity of the communities within the parish. Afterwards, the participants gathered in the parish hall for a time of fellowship and conviviality, during which they had the opportunity to meet the new parish priest in person.

St. Anne’s Parish is located in Belgravia, not far from our provincial headquarters, in an area marked by poverty, unemployment, and crime. The population consists primarily of immigrants from various African countries, whereas in the past, the neighbourhood was home mainly to communities of Portuguese and Italian origin.

This new pastoral commitment aligns perfectly with the Comboni charism, which calls missionaries to share in the lives and hopes of the poorest and most marginalised people. Furthermore, the presence of the Comboni missionaries at St. Anne’s strengthens their contribution to the life of the Archdiocese of Johannesburg, where they are already ministering at St. Charles Lwanga Parish in the Orange Farm township. (Father Efrem Tresoldi, MCCJ).

Protests against undocumented immigration continue

30^th June —the day of demonstrations organised by the March and March and Operation Dudula movements—concluded without serious incidents of violence. The maintenance of order was largely due to the massive police and military presence in the cities affected by the protests. However, a tense atmosphere persists, particularly in urban neighbourhoods home to immigrant communities from various African and Asian countries. Isolated incidents of intimidation and vandalism targeting homes and businesses owned by foreign nationals have been reported even in the days following the demonstrations.

Meanwhile, many immigrants continue to leave for their countries of origin. According to various estimates, the number of people who have returned has already exceeded 15,000.

The March and March and Operation Dudula movements—previously accused by human rights organisations and other observers of involvement in attacks on immigrants and the looting of shops and businesses owned by foreign nationals—have announced their intention to continue protesting until the government adopts measures deemed more effective at combating irregular immigration and either regularising the status of or deporting individuals lacking the necessary residency documents. Supporters of these movements argue that the presence of irregular immigrants exacerbates unemployment, crime, and drug trafficking.

It is not just fear that hangs in the air; there is also a great deal of anger. Alongside concerns regarding immigration, there is widespread discontent among many South African citizens—particularly the youth—who struggle to find employment and face limited economic prospects. Added to this is criticism directed at institutions regarding issues such as corruption and the quality of public services, including electricity and water supply, housing, healthcare, and education. According to numerous analysts, these economic and social conditions have helped fuel support for anti-immigration movements. Some observers also believe that the issue of immigration is set to play a significant role in the campaign for the municipal elections scheduled for 4^th November. Among the parties that have adopted a particularly critical stance on immigration is uMkhonto we Sizwe (the MK Party), founded by former President Jacob Zuma.

The issue of undocumented immigrants remains complex. Civil society organisations and human rights groups maintain that some have unsuccessfully attempted to obtain or renew the necessary residence permits, facing bureaucratic hurdles and lengthy administrative delays. According to these organisations, many irregular immigrants contribute to the country’s economy through their work and cannot automatically be held responsible for the crime or unemployment problems attributed to them by certain segments of public opinion. (Father Efrem Tresoldi, MCCJ)

UGANDA

Fr Giuseppe Clerici honoured with the Onorificenza di Cavaliere dell’Ordine della Stella d’Italia (Knight of the Order of the Star of Italy)

On 8^th June 2026, Father Giuseppe Clerici (known to all as Larem—meaning “friend”) received the honor of Knight of the Order of the Star of Italy, a prestigious distinction conferred by the Italian Ambassador to Uganda, His Excellency Mauro Massoni.

During the ceremony, the ambassador expressed deep gratitude to Father Clerici for his long and generous missionary life in Uganda, while also paying tribute to all the missionaries who have dedicated their lives to proclaiming the Gospel and promoting human dignity. Upon receiving the certificate and medal, Father Clerici thanked the Italian Embassy for the support it has provided over the years for the work of the Comboni missionaries in Uganda.

Also present at the ceremony were Father Anthony Kimbowa Kibira, provincial superior of the Comboni Missionaries in Uganda, some friends of Father Clerici and representatives of the Italian embassy.

Father Giuseppe Clerici has reached the ripe old age of ninety this year, and continues to be a witness to faith, dedication and missionary service. We offer him our heartfelt congratulations, along with sincere gratitude for all the good he has accomplished during his many years of missionary work, and we promise him our prayers that the years ahead may be filled with blessings.

Born in Cadorago (Como) on 8^th May 1936, he made his perpetual religious profession on 9^th September 1962, and was ordained a priest on 30^th March 1963. Assigned to the missions in Uganda in 1965, he dedicated his life to the most needy, serving for decades in various communities and dioceses—most notably Anaka Parish and Holy Rosary Parish in the Diocese of Gulu.

He celebrated the 50^th anniversary of his priestly ordination in 2013 and his 60^th in 2023. Today, he resides at the provincial headquarters in Kampala and remains a key figure in missionary work.

We wish this tireless giant of the mission many more years on the front lines, sustained by the same enthusiasm, faith, and love for the people to whom he has devoted his entire life.

LET US PRAY FOR OUR BELOVED DEAD

THE FATHERS: Haile Shakur, of the scholastic Yohanes Haile Argaw (ET/Casavatore); Daniel, of Father Bwalya Jesto Michael (Z/CN)

THE MOTHER: Louise Adjoto, of Father Salomon Badatana (TGB)

THE SISTER: Nadége, of Father Biro Jexis Berlin (RCA);

THE SISTER-IN-LAW: Maria Irene, of Bro. Alfredo do Rosário Almeida Durão (PT)

THE COMBONI SISTERS: Sr. Freri Rosa Grazia (I); Sr. Cattaneo Fiorentina M. (I)

THE SECULAR COMBONI MISSIONARY: Maria Rifino (I)