By Emmanuel Mandella

The Catholic Diocese of Tombura-Yambio on Sunday marked the first anniversary of the disappearance of Fr. Luke Yugue and his driver, Mr. Michael Gbeko.

The two men went missing on April 28, 2024, along the Nagero-Tombura road amid heightened tensions of inter-communal violence at the time.

Fr. Luke and Michael were last seen traveling on a pastoral mission but never returned.

In a heartfelt message issued on Sunday, the Bishop of Tombura-Yambio Diocese, His Lordship Eduardo Hiiboro Kussala, expressed the enduring pain of the faithful while urging authorities to act.

“One year has passed, yet the pain remains fresh, and our tears continue to flow with the same depth of sorrow as on that fateful day,” Bishop Hiboro said. “We have not, and shall never, abandon our duty to seek the truth.”

The bishop also acknowledged that a planned formal memorial event had to be delayed due to the recent death of Pope Francis and the ongoing election of a new Holy Father.

However, he assured the faithful that prayers and gatherings in honor of Fr. Luke and Michael will soon be held.

During his address, Bishop Hiboro emphasized the spiritual strength found in the Easter message of Christ’s resurrection, noting that even amidst darkness, hope endures.

“As we live through this Easter season, the time when Christ rose triumphant over death, we are reminded that darkness does not have the final word,” he said.

“Let our remembrance today be an act of faith, a testimony to the power of love, and a bold cry for peace and justice.”

The disappearance of Fr. Luke and Michael remains a symbol of the many unresolved injustices plaguing Western Equatoria State, particularly during episodes of inter-communal violence. Despite multiple appeals from the Church and the community, there has been no response from the authorities.

 As the community continues to pray and demand accountability, Bishop Hiboro called on the Christians to remain steadfast.

“May the Risen Christ comfort all who mourn, strengthen the weary, and heal the broken-hearted,” he declared.