Book Launch in Kisangani Marks 25 Years of Bishop Marcel Utembi's Episcopacy

The book launch ceremony took place on November 14, 2026, in Kisangani, the capital of Tshopo province in northeastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. The book, written by Gérard Bisilingi Madjuto and prefaced by Abbé Antoine Lokatikala Komonyaka, chronicles Bishop Marcel Utembi Tapa's 25-year episcopal journey. The prelate expressed his gratitude and humility upon receiving the initiative, emphasizing that his ministry was made possible by God's grace, ecclesial communion, and collaboration with many individuals.

The book is divided into five chapters, detailing Bishop Utembi's family background, youth, education, and theological formation. It also explores his studies in canon law in Kinshasa and Ottawa, Canada, as well as his pastoral and administrative responsibilities. The publication highlights his appointment as Bishop of Mahagi-Nioka, his episcopal ordination in Rome by Pope John Paul II, and his elevation to the metropolitan see of Kisangani.

The book also examines Bishop Utembi's roles within the Congolese Episcopal Conference (CENCO) and the Association of Episcopal Conferences of Central Africa, as well as his institutional, academic, and social engagements. Abbé Antoine Lokatikala Komonyaka's preface portrays Bishop Utembi as a pastor deeply committed to ecclesial communion, dialogue, and service. The preface underscores the bishop's fidelity to the Church, love of knowledge, and dedication to humanity and the common good.

Gérard Bisilingi Madjuto explained that his work aimed to go beyond a chronological account of Bishop Utembi's life and functions, instead focusing on the human and spiritual foundations of his journey and the values that can inspire current and future generations. Bishop Utembi emphasized that the book's title, "Fidélité et Unité," represents two essential values for the Church and the Congolese nation: fidelity to Christ and the Gospel, and unity, which calls for communion, fraternity, and reconciliation.

Bishop Marcel Utembi Tapa expressed his hope that the publication would contribute to scientific, theological, pastoral, and sociopolitical reflection on the relationships between the Church and the Congolese nation. He thanked the organizing committee, the publishing house, and all those who contributed to the book's realization. The bishop renewed his commitment to serving the particular Church of Kisangani and contributing to the construction of a reconciled, united, and prosperous Congolese nation.

During the ceremony, Gérard Bisilingi Madjuto awarded Bishop Marcel Utembi Tapa an honorary diploma, honoring his 25 years of episcopal ministry and dedication to the Church and nation. The event marked a significant milestone in the bishop's journey, celebrating his quarter-century of service to the Church and the Congolese people.

Key points

• The book "Fidélité et Unité au cœur de l’Église et de la nation" chronicles Bishop Marcel Utembi Tapa's 25-year episcopal ministry in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.