By Ginaba Lino
The Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Juba, Bishop Santo Loku Pio, has called on Christians to show understanding and support for priests, cautioning against condemning them for minor mistakes, as they are “human like you” and not angels.
In his homily during the Chrism Mass at St. Theresa Cathedral in Juba, Bishop Loku emphasized the essential role Priests play in the spiritual and social life of communities, urging the faithful to appreciate their service and sacrifices.
“These priests, they are not angels. They are your sons, and they are your brothers, and they are your uncles. They baptize your children. They prepare your children for confirmation. They witness your marriages. They bless your families. They bless the sick. They bury the dead. And they go around visiting you, consoling you when you are in your problems. Now, you tell the bishop, this Priest is useless. At least you recognize the baptism he has done. That baptism is not useless. That Holy Communion is not useless.”
The Bishop loku lamented that many priests serve under intense pressure from both Church leadership and the faithful, often finding themselves in difficult situations.
“They are like between a rock and a hard ground. When they come, the bishop says, where are you going? Go back. And the Christians are saying, don’t come here, you are looking bad.”
Bishop Loku also encouraged priests to remain committed to their vocation, serving with renewed zeal and dedication despite the challenges they face.
“Don’t remain old. Don’t be lazy. I know the demands of the Christians are too many upon you. So, you serve with zeal, with enthusiasm, like the first day of your ordination. Not to be a burden to yourself, nor a burden to the church, nor a burden to the bishop.”
Reflecting on the significance of the Chrism Mass, he highlighted its importance as a sign of unity between the bishop and priests, during which sacred oils, the oil of the sick, the oil of catechumens, and the holy chrism are blessed and consecrated for sacramental use.
The Bishop further acknowledged the difficult conditions under which many priests minister, including lack of housing, electricity, and basic services, noting that some continue to serve in remote areas despite these hardships.
He expressed gratitude for their dedication and sacrifice, recognizing the physical and emotional toll of priestly ministry.
Addressing the faithful, Bishop Loku made a strong appeal for greater support and compassion toward priests, urging them to avoid excessive demands and criticism.
“Don’t crucify them for minor mistakes. They are human like you,” he said, adding that priests require basic necessities such as shelter, food, healthcare, and transport.
He concluded by encouraging Christians to foster a spirit of collaboration and friendship with priests, describing them as “your sons” who deserve care, respect, and understanding as they serve the Church and society.