The ministry of the Clergy, he said, requires a life of sacrifice and dedication to others for the sake of the Gospel, Archbishop Kiala said, adding, “This way of serving should lead us to spend ourselves for the good of others, always keeping before us the example of Jesus, who came to serve and not to be served.”
The Local Ordinary of Malanje, who also serves as Chair of the National Commission for the Liturgy of the Bishops' Conference of Angola and São Tomé and Príncipe (CEAST) said that Priesthood is rooted in charity and must be characterized by love for God and an unwavering commitment to promoting justice and social equity.
“The ministry of a Priest must be marked by supernatural charity, a sensitive and solicitous love of God, and a commitment to social justice. As Saint Paul said, ‘The love of Christ compels us,’” he said.
Reflecting on Clergy’s responsibilities, Archbishop Kiala said, “The Priest accompanies people through all stages of life – welcoming the newborn in baptism, administering Sacraments, and guiding them in the knowledge of God and the path of goodness. Serving Christ means serving His Church and all humanity.”
Addressing the Deacons-elect, he described their ascent to Holy Orders as a mission of service, emphasizing that their work must be for the salvation of souls.
“Our life as consecrated persons is, and must always be, a service – a service rendered selflessly for God, seeking only the salvation of our brothers and sisters,” he said.
The Catholic Church leader, who started his Episcopal Ministry in August 2013 as Bishop of Angola’s Sumbe Diocese told the candidates he was to ordain, “The world needs you and awaits you. Even when the world’s hostility is directed at Priests and Deacons, it reveals its hunger for truth, justice, and renewal, which your ministry is called to satisfy.”
Archbishop Kiala also encouraged the newly ordained Deacons and Priests to face challenges with courage and resilience. “The world may crucify you, but receive its criticisms, even those that are unjust, as an invitation to grow in your mission. Do not be afraid,” he said in his December 7 homily.
João Vissesse is an Angolan Journalist with a passion and rich experience in Catholic Church Communication and Media Apostolate.
