Ioba: The Apostolic Nuncio to Burkina Faso and Niger Welcomed by Crowd in Dissihn

Dissihn: The Apostolic Nuncio to Burkina Faso, His Excellency Archbishop Eric Soviguidi, made his first visit to Dissihn, in the Ioba province, where he was welcomed by a crowd of Catholic faithful and people from the surrounding villages. The Vatican diplomat was accompanied by the bishop of the diocese of Diebougou, Monsignor Kussiele Der Rapha«l Dabire.

According to Burkina Information Agency, upon his arrival, the Apostolic Nuncio was greeted by the parish priest of Saint Therese of the Child Jesus of Dissihn, Father Kussiele Samson Poda, the president of the special delegation of the commune of Dissihn, Benjamin Nana, and various administrative, military, customary, and religious authorities. A large crowd of faithful also gathered, celebrating with songs and cheers as Monsignor Eric Soviguidi greeted the officials before entering the church.

Father Kussiele Samson Poda, in his welcoming address, emphasized the honor of the Apostolic Nuncio's visit, highlighting the Holy See's attention to Catholic communities. Monsignor Kussiele Der Rapha«l Dabire introduced the Apostolic Nuncio as the Pope's ambassador to Burkina Faso, reinforcing the significance of the visit.

Father Poda, the 20th parish priest of Dissihn, provided historical context, noting that the parish was established on June 6, 1933, by Father Jean Lesourd, and is the first parish of the Diocese of Diebougou. It currently encompasses 23 villages with 28,481 Catholic faithful.

The Apostolic Nuncio expressed appreciation for the presence of leaders from other religious denominations and shared his commitment to engaging with communities directly. He affirmed his intention to experience the realities on the ground rather than remaining confined to an office setting.

Monsignor Eric Soviguidi concluded his visit with a blessing of the crowd from the church steps, marking a memorable interaction with the faithful in Dissihn.