Lakes state ordains more priests, calls for peaceful environment

By Manyang Mayom

July 20, 2010 (RUMBEK) – A number of priests were ordained for Lakes states Catholic and Episcopal churches this week.

John Mathiang Machol, who was until Sunday morning a deacon in the Catholic Church, was ordained as Catholic Church priest in Rumbek, while four bishops were consecrated for the Episcopal Church of Sudan (ECS) in Juba. One of them will serve in Yirol Diocese, and another one in Cueibet Diocese of ECS.

The Lakes state Sunday blessing appealed for unity or harmony between Catholic and ECS churches across the country, Sudan. The ordination of the 4 bishops for ECS was revealed by Bishop Isaac Dhieu of Akot Diocese ECS.

Speaking at the celebration of the priestly ordination of Fr. John Mathiang, Bishop Isaac Dhieu described the day as “joyful for both the Catholic Church and the Episcopal Church of Sudan”, explaining that the priestly ordination in Rumbek is taking place at the same time as that of four bishops for ECS in Juba.

The ECS bishop assured the newly ordained priests of God’s support in his ministry as a priest through the continuous presence of Jesus in his life, giving the example of the Prophet Jeremiah who was called and chosen by God even before his birth.

The Bishop further urged the community of Lakes state to join hands and pray for peace. Christian Churches and traditional religious leaders in Lakes State have come together on several occasions to pray for reconciliation and peace.

More ecumenical meetings will be prepared aimed at fostering peace before, during and after the referendum.

(ST)