Newly Ordained Deacons in Angola Challenged to “speak the language of closeness”

Archbishop Mbilingi called upon the Deacons-elect to live a life of service, and emphasized, “Speak the language of closeness, which means being available.”

Speaking the language of closeness, he said, “involves renouncing personal agendas and being ready for God’s surprises, which manifest through people, unexpected situations, and even changes of plans.”

“The language of closeness speaks louder through actions than through words,” the Spiritan Archbishop, who started his Episcopal Ministry in January 2000 as Coadjutor Bishop of Angola’s Lwena Catholic Diocese said. 

He continued, “In service, we experience closeness – closeness to those who need our hand, our availability, our time, and the adjustment of our schedules because love is urgent; love is urgent.”

Archbishop Mbilingi went on to reflect on the role of Deacons in the Church from the Acts of the Apostles, saying that the ministry is rooted in the early Church's response to tensions arising from the distribution of resources. 

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He urged the Deacons-elect to ensure equity, particularly in addressing societal and community disparities that come to their attention.

“The Diaconate is a responsibility we assume not only within Christian communities but also in society. Our way of serving should challenge those entrusted with distributing the resources of this earth to prioritize the needs of the most vulnerable,” the Catholic Church leader said during the November 16 Diaconate Ordination.

He exhorted the Deacons-elect to follow the example of Jesus as they journey to the Priesthood. He told them, “You will be Priests to serve, following Jesus, who came not to be served but to serve and to give His life. You are called to be collaborators – with your Bishop, Priests, Laity, and Religious – working together in your mission field.”

“Strengthened by the gifts of the Holy Spirit, your mission is to assist the Bishop and his Presbytery in the service of the word, altar, and charity. Show yourselves as servants of all,” Archbishop Mbilingi emphasized. 

He further said, “The only way to be a disciple of Jesus is to bear witness to Him. Whoever serves their brothers and sisters without tiring follows the model of Christ, who dedicated Himself wholly to others.”