Congo Bishops Urged to Cut Ties with Affluence and Nepotism
New Bishop of Ouesso Embraces Spiritual Disciplines for Authentic Ministry
Bishop Brice Armand Ibombo, the new bishop of Ouesso, has been instilled with a mission to build a Church that is alive, fraternal, and radiant, according to Archbishop Bienvenu Manamika of Brazzaville, president of the Episcopal Conference of Congo. This mission was emphasized during the bishop's installation on July 19.
The Apostolic Nuncio has highlighted several key principles for Bishop Ibombo to uphold in his ministry. He should be detached from riches, find in the poor a father and a brother, and not yield to favoritism based on power. Bishop Ibombo's episcopal motto, "That they may all be one", encapsulates this spirit of unity and solidarity.
Archbishop Manamika has underscored the unique challenges and opportunities of the diocese of Ouesso. He has advised Bishop Ibombo to know his sheep, to love and guide them with wisdom and discernment. Bishop Corona, the former bishop of Ouesso, has reminded him that he is called to be "a man poor, for and with the poor".
Bishop Corona emphasizes the importance of living poverty, celibacy, and virginity for bishops as essential spiritual disciplines. By embracing these commitments, bishops can authentically embody Christ-like virtues and foster spiritual growth within their dioceses. Living poverty detaches bishops from material possessions and worldly attachments, fostering humility and solidarity with the poor. Celibacy enables undivided attention to their flock, and virginity symbolizes a commitment to spiritual integrity and moral leadership.
Bishop Corona has also asked the priests, religious, and laypeople of Ouesso to help the new bishop fulfill his mission. He encourages them to remain in communion, to love, and to pray for him. He suggests that they should correct him with fraternal charity if necessary.
Archbishop Manamika describes the appointment of Bishop Ibombo as a demanding mission but also a beautiful and hopeful one. He emphasizes the role of the Holy Spirit in the mission of the bishop, to bring the Good News to the poor. Bishop Ibombo prays that they find in Christ the strength and energy necessary to transcend daily pastoral fatigue and worries. He asks all apostolic workers not to tire, give in to discouragement, nor be deserters of the Gospel and the word of God.
In summary, Bishop Corona's emphasis on living poverty, celibacy, and virginity as foundational for bishops ensures that their ministry remains focused on divine service rather than earthly concerns, thereby enhancing their pastoral effectiveness and spiritual witness.
- Bishop Brice Armand Ibombo, in his mission to build a Church that is alive, fraternal, and radiant, should not only embrace the spiritual disciplines of poverty, celibacy, and virginity but also lead his diocese with undivided attention and spiritual integrity, as these commitments foster authentic ministry.
- As Bishop Ibombo establishing his ministry in the unique challenges and opportunities of the Ouesso diocese, his focus on the spiritual disciplines of poverty, celibacy, and virginity in compliance with Bishop Corona's advice demonstrates his prioritization of financial detachment, business acumen, and ethical leadership that sets an example for his flock.
