Emmanuel Sule| Radio Bakhita – Auxiliary Bishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Juba, Santo Loku Pio, has challenged young people to use their faith, education and talents to serve others and contribute to the development of South Sudan.
Bishop Loku Pio made the call during Holy Mass marking the Feast of St. Daniel Comboni at St. Daniel Comboni Secondary School in Juba, where students, teachers, parents, missionaries, alumni and members of the Catholic community gathered to celebrate the legacy of the missionary saint.
In his homily, Bishop loku said Christian faith should be demonstrated through prayer, practical service and commitment to justice, particularly in supporting the poor, marginalised and vulnerable.
He described St. Daniel Comboni as a missionary who defended the dignity of African people and dedicated his life to confronting slavery, poverty and injustice.
Reflecting on the image of the Good Shepherd, the bishop urged Christians to protect vulnerable people and reject practices and attitudes that undermine human dignity, including child marriage, social divisions and placing personal interests above the welfare of others.
He particularly encouraged students to take their education seriously, develop their talents and prepare themselves to contribute positively to the future of South Sudan.
During the celebration, more than 100 students and pupils from different schools received the Sacrament of Confirmation, marking a significant step in their Christian faith.
The administration of St. Daniel Comboni Secondary School also used the occasion to reaffirm its commitment to developing students academically, socially, culturally and spiritually.
Teachers were recognized for their dedication and sacrifice, while parents, alumni, missionaries and other supporters were thanked for their contribution to the school and the education of young people.
The Comboni Missionaries’ Provincial Secretary for Sudan and South Sudan also reflected on St. Daniel Comboni’s missionary vision and his belief in the dignity and potential of African people.
Highlighting Comboni’s vision commonly expressed as “Save Africa through Africa,” he called for continued investment in the education, spiritual formation and leadership development of young Africans.
Students, particularly those who received Confirmation, were encouraged to live their Christian faith courageously and become active witnesses through service in their communities.
The celebration also highlighted the importance of missionary work and encouraged Catholics to support the Church’s evangelization activities, including participation in World Mission Sunday on October 18.
St. Daniel Comboni, who died in 1881, dedicated his missionary life to Africa and promoted the evangelization, education and dignity of African people.
The annual feast at St. Daniel Comboni Secondary School commemorates his missionary legacy while encouraging a new generation to embrace education, faith, responsibility and service to society.