Pioneer Bishop of Bafatá Catholic Diocese in Guinea-Bissau Still Remembered Years Later for Faith Legacy

The Priest also recalled the sorrow that engulfed the people of God in the Diocese upon hearing of Bishop Zilli’s death. 

The day, Fr. Brentegani recalled, “was a complicated moment.”

“We all felt that something within us had broken. He was no longer just a figure in the history of our people but an irreplaceable presence,” the Priest said.

Fr. Brentegani noted that Bishop Zilli’s life and example continues to inspire the Diocese. “He always had a unique presence. His affection, kindness, and the way he cared for each of us. This was his greatest hallmark. He was always available, with a smile, with attentiveness, ready to share in everyone’s struggles. That was the gift God gave him,” he said.

The Diocesan Administrator went on to reflect on Bishop Zilli’s selflessness and his dedication to service. “His greatest gift was his availability. He lived a life of self-giving, teaching us to live with faith and to share what we have, even when we have little. This is the path he invited us to follow, especially during Lent, which calls us to renew our faith and our commitment to follow Jesus, despite doubts and hardships,” he said.

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Fr. Brentegani spoke of the power of resurrection, saying, “In times of pain and loss, when we stand before a grave, what may seem like a sign of death for non-Christians is, for us, a sign of life.”

Following a four-year vacancy after Bishop Zilli’s death, the Diocese of Bafatá has welcomed a new Bishop, Mons. Víctor Luís Quematcha, who was appointed on March 8.

Father Brentegani expressed confidence in the new Bishop’s leadership, saying, “Bishop Víctor, who now leads us with joy and commitment, has a great challenge ahead. The Church remains strong, and with it, we continue our journey toward a future of faith and hope, just as Bishop Pedro always taught us.”

He added, “Bishop Víctor, our new pastor, inspires us to move forward with courage and without fear, even in the face of difficulties.”