Over 150 seminarians gathered from across four wings under the Catholic Diocese of Tombura-Yambio (CDTY) convened to pay homage to the diocese leader

By Emmanuel Mandella

Over 150 seminarians under the Catholic Diocese of Tombura-Yambio (CDTY) on Monday (yesterday) convened to thank the bishop of the diocese Eduardo Hiiboro Kussala for his spiritual mentorship and support in their journey to priesthood.

Gathered from across the diocese’s four seminary wings- St. Joseph Minor Seminary in Maingbangaru, Orientation Seminary in Nzara, St. John Paul II Institute of Philosophy in Yambio, and theological institutions in Uganda, the seminarians hailed the bishop’s vision of building a promising convocation for the future church leadership.

“You are modeling a lifestyle of communion and care. Your tireless effort to bring us together is truly commendable. Looking at this hall full of seminarians, one can say with joy that you, our bishop, are rich not in gold, but in spiritual sons,” said Daniel Michael Bazia, Head Prefect at St. John Paul II Institute of Philosophy.

In heartfelt addresses, student leaders took turns to reflect on the challenges they face and the strength they draw from the Bishop’s continued presence.

Seminarian Gbianami Anthony Panderu, head boy at St. Joseph Minor Seminary, described his seminary as a “mobile room,” a symbol of perseverance and growth. With 136 students including 54 new Senior Ones this year, the institution is growing, but not without challenges.

“The main issue is not funds. It is lack of a residence for teachers. We urgently need accommodation for them,” he said.

Meanwhile, the head boy at the Orientation Seminary, Tingbagbe Anthony Atoroba revealed that their biggest challenge is lack of water and congestion in the rooms.

“This journey of pilgrimage is demanding, but it is one that is filled with hope. Your presence today means everything, my Lord Bishop. It is a guiding light,” he said.

The spiritual and academic foundation at the St. John Paul II Institute of Philosophy was also spotlighted.

“Work is not separate from formation. Our farm keeps us strong. And while we face issues like limited internet and books, we keep going, thanks to the Bishop’s encouragement and support through initiatives like Yellow Sunday collections,” Bazia said.

On his part, seminarian Ganunu John Kurusani stressed that having all levels of formation from Minor Seminary to Theology within the diocese is a rare blessing.

“Not every diocese in Africa has even one seminary. We have all. If God enables us to be priests, let us never forget the vision of our Bishop.”

He also recommended organizing a special thanksgiving Mass for MTN and partners that have been supporting digital connectivity, for academic growth.

Seminarian Robert Miagia, currently studying theology, noted how rare it is for seminarians in other dioceses to interact freely with their bishop.

“This is the second we are meeting the bishop. It means more than just a meeting, it is a formation through fellowship.”

Rev. Fr. Justin Atoroba, Director of Vocations and Orientation, left the seminarians with a fatherly advise:

“You came for a mission. Love it. The altar may seem far, but it is close if you remain committed. Protect your moral life, your documents, and your prayer, your work in class, chapel, and garden. Let us be serious.”

This gathering was more than a celebration. It was a sign of life in the Church in Western Equatoria State. From the youngest seminarian to the theology scholars, each story was a testament to resilience, calling, and a shared hope.