On September 3, 2026, twenty new Catholic priests were ordained at Notre-Dame du Congo Cathedral in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo. The ordination ceremony was led by Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo, who emphasized the importance of being bridge builders between the people and God. The new priests, comprising eighteen diocesan priests, one missionary from the Congregation of Claretins, and one from the Congregation of the Schools of Charity, were encouraged to be close to the people and promote communication and reconciliation.
In his homily, Cardinal Ambongo stressed that the priestly ministry is born out of love for Christ. He urged the new priests not to tire of visiting the sick and those in need of God's word, emphasizing the need for priests to be close to the people. The cardinal also highlighted the challenges facing the country, including unemployment, war in the east, and social cohesion, and encouraged the priests to take initiatives in promoting dialogue and reconciliation.
Cardinal Ambongo emphasized that the priestly ministry is not an adventure, but a calling that requires a minimum of 10 years of formation. He reassured the new priests that God's call is not withdrawn, even beyond their capacities and strengths. The cardinal also encouraged them to bear witness to Christ through their daily behavior, rather than just their declarations during sermons.
The cardinal stressed that the people's recognition of a priest is based on their manner of living, discipline, and announcement of the Gospel. He urged the new priests not to neglect the gift of grace and the greatness of the priesthood. Cardinal Ambongo also highlighted that the fruitfulness of the priestly and missionary ministry depends not on the person's capacity but on God's trust and choice.
During the ordination ceremony, Cardinal Ambongo also sent missionaries, formators, religious, and laypeople to spread the Gospel worldwide. The new priests were commissioned to teach, sanctify, and govern the people of God. The cardinal reminded them that they will face moments of fatigue, temptation, and difficulties, but encouraged them to remain prudent and vigilant in their priesthood.
The ordination ceremony was attended by various dignitaries and members of the Catholic community. The new priests were welcomed and congratulated by the congregation. The event marked a significant milestone in the lives of the newly ordained priests and the Catholic community in Kinshasa.
The Catholic Church in the Democratic Republic of the Congo continues to play a vital role in promoting spiritual and social development. The ordination of new priests is seen as a significant step in strengthening the Church's mission and service to the people. The newly ordained priests will begin their ministry in various parishes and institutions across the country.
Key points
- The new priests were ordained to promote communication, reconciliation, and to be bridge builders between the people and God.
- Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo emphasized the importance of being close to the people and promoting dialogue and reconciliation.
- The priestly ministry requires a minimum of 10 years of formation and is not an adventure, but a calling from God.
