The ordination celebration, that took place at Comboni Primary School ground in Rumbek, drew people from all continents of the world.
Fr. John Mathiang was ordained by His Lordship, Caesar Mazzolari, the bishop of Rumbek.
Speaking on behalf of the Government of Lakes State, Marco Chol Maciec, who serves as the Advisor for Political Affairs, said that Lakes State government will provide a conducive environment for the Church to carry out its activities, adding that the government will ensure freedom of worship to all citizens.
Mr. Chol described the event of the ordination as “a special gift of God to the people of Rumbek”, adding that he is taking part in an ordination ceremony for the first time ever.
The newly ordained priest, Fr. John Mathiang expressed joy and appreciation, saying that when he started his journey to the priesthood, he did not know that the day of his ordination would come. He is also convinced that his priestly ordination is a fruit of the love and prayers of many people.
He urged his brothers who are in the seminary to work for the universal brotherhood (and sisterhood) in Christ, adding that “we are one family, the family of God.”
The last priestly ordination of a native of Rumbek for the diocese took place in 1981.
A NEW CATHOLIC PRIEST ORDAINED FOR RUMBEK DIOCESE
A new Catholic Priest, Fr. John Mathiang Machol, was ordained on July 18 2010 for the Diocese of Rumbek in Southern Sudan.