The Pope Benedict XVI called on all the churches to dedicate one year of prayer to priests all over the world. The Archbishop decided that in the Archdiocese of Juba, its conclusion be done together with the reopening of Lyria Parish.
Archbishop Lokudu told the faithful that the occasion was conducted in Lirya because the first Sudanese priests started their pastoral activities together there.
In a long and colorful celebration animated by a magnificent choir, Archbishop Lokudu stressed that the Bishop and priests in the Archdiocese of Juba are determined to carry on the mission of the church.
Archbishop Lokudo called upon the priests to be living witnesses to Christ and to follow on the footprints of their Sudanese counterparts. The Bishop explained that priests are gifts and examples for others to follow.
Father Guido, Avelino, Saturlino and Tartisio were the first local priests to work at Saint Joseph the Workers’ Parish.
The parish was officially re-opened yesterday in its original location in Lela, after many years of displacement.