Ziro/sapouy: The new priest places his mandate under the banner of unity, exemplary conduct, and tolerance. Installed on Sunday at the head of the parish of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception of Sapouy, the new priest, Father Jude Augustin Ezeakacha, placed his mandate under the values of Christian unity, exemplary conduct, and tolerance, inviting the community to write with him "a new page" of parish life.
According to Burkina Information Agency, before a large congregation, Father Ezeakacha affirmed his commitment to uniting all the members of this multicultural parish. He emphasized the importance of Christian unity, citing the sacrament of baptism as a foundational element that should keep the parish one and indivisible. His installation was presided over by Bishop Alexandre Basie, Bishop and Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Koudougou.
Addressing the parishioners directly, Father Ezeakacha invited them to engage in pastoral work. He encouraged everyone to work in the name of the Gospel, stating that a new chapter in the Church was beginning. He urged the community to strive to set an example, wherever they might be.
Concluding his remarks, the new parish priest made a strong appeal for social cohesion. He called upon the community to embrace mutual acceptance, love of neighbor, and religious tolerance, emphasizing these as vital components for a harmonious parish life.
In his homily, Bishop Alexandre Basie recalled the fundamental mission of the priest, which is to serve God's people and guide the faithful in faith, humility, love, and truth. He invited Father Ezeakacha to be a shepherd close to his flock, attentive to the spiritual and social realities of his community. The ceremony, marked by the presentation of the keys to the tabernacle and the rectory as well as the taking of the oath, officially consecrated Father Ezeakacha's entry into his pastoral duties. The faithful, visibly moved, praised a pastor who was "humble," "a unifier," and "close to God's people."
The parish of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception in Sapouy, which comprises six parish centers, falls under the diocese of Koudougou.