In a year marked by blessings and divine vocations, the Society of African Missions (SMA) joyfully commemorates the ordination of 18 young men to the priesthood in 2023. These newly ordained priests symbolize the Church's future and an unwavering commitment to serve God's mission in various corners of the world. Among these newly ordained priests are individuals hailing from diverse backgrounds and countries, each on a unique journey to the priesthood.
The diversity of their origins mirrors the universal nature of the Church and its mission to spread the message of Christ's love and salvation to all nations.
Allow us to introduce you to these dedicated servants of God and their respective assignments:
Fr. Alexander ABAH (Nigeria): After completing his theological studies in Cote d'Ivoire, Fr. Alexander has been appointed to the delegation of Sierra Leone.
Fr. Zachariah YOHANNA (Nigeria): Following his theological studies in Cote d'Ivoire, Fr. Zachariah has been appointed to the Nigeria Province.
Fr. Robert DEMKWAP (Nigeria: Fr. Robert, who pursued his theological studies in Cote d'Ivoire, has been appointed to Togo Province.
Fr. Joakim KIPKIRUI (Kenya): Fr. Joakim, originally from Kenya, completed his theological studies in Cote d'Ivoire and has been appointed to Kenya District.
Fr. Lambert KETTE (Central African Republic): Fr. Lambert, who studied theology in Kenya, has been appointed to Central African Republic District.
Fr. Sylvester Seni MAHEGA (Tanzania: Fr. Sylvester, from Tanzania District, completed his theological studies in Cote d'Ivoire and has been appointed to the Democratic Republic of Congo District.
Fr. Biswajit Nayak AMBRUJ NAYAK (India): Hailing from India Province, Fr. Biswajit completed his theological studies in India and has been appointed to Togo.
Fr. John Xavier CHINNAPPAN and Fr. Joseph Rajendro VIJAYA NAYAK (India): Both Fr. John Xavier and Fr. Joseph Rajendro, from India Province, completed their theological studies in India and have been appointed to the delegation of Liberia, respectively.
Fr. Abel ATTIKASSOU (Benin): Fr. Abel, originally from Benin, pursued his theological studies in Cote d'Ivoire and is furthering his studies at ICMA in Cote d'Ivoire.
Fr. Achille HOUNNOUVI (Benin): Fr. Achille, who studied theology in Nigeria, has been appointed to Benin-Niger Province.
Fr. Hospice YEHOUENOU (Benin): Fr. Hospice, from Benin, has been appointed to Nigeria Province.
Fr. Atta Serge Pacome BINI (Côte d’Ivoire): After his theological studies in Nigeria, Fr. Atta has been appointed to Côte d’Ivoire Province.
Fr. Emmanuel Adade DAHLIN (Côte d’Ivoire): Fr. Emmanuel, who studied theology in Cote d'Ivoire, has been appointed to Benin-Niger Province.
Fr. Vincent Yessongyiyeta SANOGO (Côte d’Ivoire): Fr. Vincent, who completed his theological studies in Kenya, has been appointed to Côte d’Ivoire Province.
Fr. Jean-Paul LAWSON (Togo): Fr. Jean-Paul, an SMA from Togo who completed his theological studies in Kenya, has been appointed to Togo Province.
Fr. Justin DZIKOUNOU (Togo) and Fr. Samuel HAGAN (Ghana Province): Both Fr. Justin, originally from Togo, and Fr. Samuel, from Ghana Province, completed their theological studies in Cote d'Ivoire and have been sent for further studies at ICMA Cote d'Ivoire.
As we celebrate the ordination of these dedicated priests, our hearts overflow with gratitude to God for calling them to His service. We also extend our heartfelt appreciation to their parents, families, and friends who have supported and encouraged them on their vocational journeys.
We acknowledge the invaluable role played by benefactors and formators who have nurtured and guided these young priests throughout their formation. Your unwavering support and guidance have been instrumental in shaping their paths to priesthood.
As these newly ordained priests embark on their missions, we humbly pray that the good Lord accompanies them every step of the way. May their ministry be characterized by compassion, love, and unwavering faith as they carry the message of Christ's salvation to all corners of the world.
The Society of African Missions extends its heartfelt congratulations and warm welcome to these young men as they enter the priesthood. We believe they will shine as beacons of light and hope in a world in need of God's grace and love.
By Dominic Wabwireh
