The Catholic Diocese of Rumbek has set to mark the first anniversary of the death of Bishop Caesar Mazzolari on Monday, July 15th.
Rumbek, Diocesan Administrator Fr. Fernando Colombo, said that the exact day of the anniversary is next Monday and that the celebration will be anticipated by one day for pastoral reasons, Good News Radio reported.Bishop Mazzolari passed away on Saturday, July 16th 2011, exactly one week after the celebration of the Independence of South Sudan.
Fr. Fernando Colombo announced that the commemoration will begin with a Solemn Eucharistic celebration in the open ground at the Holy Family Cathedral at 10 AM.
He added that the mass will be followed by a procession to the late Bishop Mazzolaris’ tomb in the Cathedral to lay a commemorative “stone” bearing dates of his life.
He advised all Parishes and Institutions of the Diocese who cannot come to the Holy Family Cathedral to organize commemorative celebrations in their respective locations.
Fr. Colombo said that the late Bishop will be remembered for his commitment to encouraging the growth and development of all good initiatives for the benefit of the Church in South Sudan.
The Diocesan Administrator said the Diocese continues to pray for his soul and call on all the faithful not to forget the legacy of optimism and good will promoted by the late Bishop Mazzolari.
Fr. Fernando Colombo called for patience as the Church authorities go through the process of appointing another Bishop.
He expressed hope that the new Bishop will be received with optimism, hope, and spirit of collaboration.
God called home his faithful servant, Bishop Caesar Mazzolari on 16th July 2011, during the celebration of the Eucharist and at the moment of consecration. He died in the presence of Jesus during the Eucharist in his own Cathedral, surrounded by his priests, religious and faithful.
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