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Newly Ordained Deacon in Mozambique Encouraged to Let Go of “personal securities”

Bishop António Manuel Bogaio Constantino with Deacon Sérgio Mário Vilangulo. Credit: Catholic Archdiocese of Beira

Bishop António Manuel Bogaio Constantino, the Auxiliary Bishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Beira in Mozambique has encouraged Seminarian Sérgio Mário Vilangulo who he ordained Deacon to embrace his calling with complete detachment from personal comforts and securities.

In his homily during the October 13 Diaconate Ordination, Bishop Bogaio emphasized that the mission of the Church is not about personal gain or safety, but about total surrender to God. 

“Be willing to let go of personal securities; the mission is not based on comfort or attachment but on complete surrender to God,” the Mozambican Catholic Bishop said during the Eucharistic celebration that was held at St. Matthew the Evangelist Parish of Beira Archdiocese.

He added, “Remember, nothing is hidden from God, who knows our thoughts and intentions. Your mission is to be the messenger of this living and effective Word, not your own.”

The Mozambican member of the Comboni Missionaries of the Heart of Jesus (MCCJ) pointed out that “the Deacon must be a man of prayer,” which he described as one of the fundamental pillars of Comboni spirituality. 

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“For Comboni, prayer is the sustenance of the entire mission,” Bishop Bogaio said, adding that prayer should not only be seen as a devotional practice but as a constant source of strength, guidance, and comfort.

He spoke about the necessity of the Deacon being close to the poor and marginalized, saying, “Living among them, sharing their pain and joy, is essential. Bringing the Gospel should be a lived reality in communion with the people, not something distant. The missionary must always be in tune with those he serves.”

The 54-year-old Catholic Church leader, who has been Auxiliary Bishop since his Episcopal Consecration in February 2023 reminded Seminarian Vilangulo that he is part of a long legacy, saying, “Respect the legacy of your predecessors, for we are here because of them. The motto 'mission or death' should guide you, remembering that your dedication is part of a greater calling.”

“The Diaconate is a responsibility of humble and constant service,” he added.

Bishop Bogaio underscored the importance of living the MCCJ spirituality in every aspect of life, not just as a religious practice, but as a way to be present in the world.

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“Today, we are here because of those who came before us. Each one of them sacrificed their life for the mission. So, let your dedication always be made with humility and love. Remember that the mission is not a privilege but a responsibility that must be carried out with courage and determination,” the Catholic Bishop said.

João Vissesse is an Angolan Journalist with a passion and rich experience in Catholic Church Communication and Media Apostolate.