The Congolese Catholic Church is experiencing a new change in its clergy. Monsignor José Bernard Likolo Bokal’Etumba, bishop of Lisala, was appointed by Pope Francis as the new apostolic administrator of the archdiocese of Molegbe in the province of North Ubangi. This appointment was announced by the National Episcopal Conference of Congo (Cenco) in a press release dated August 1, 2023.
This decision follows the resignation of Mgr Dominique Bulamatari Kizayakana from the pastoral government of the diocese of Molegbe. Monsignor Likolo Bokal’Etumba will thus take responsibility for guiding this religious community in its spiritual mission.
The Catholic clergy plays an important role in the religious and social life of the Congolese population. Bishops are figures respected and listened to by their faithful. Their appointment and their presence in different regions of the country testify to the importance of the church in the daily life of the Congolese.
Monsignor Likolo Bokal’Etumba will therefore be responsible for guiding the faithful of the archdiocese of Molegbe and ensuring the proper functioning of this religious community. Its role will be essential in the spiritual accompaniment of the faithful, the management of ecclesiastical affairs and the maintenance of unity and cohesion within this community.
This appointment is an important event for the Congolese Catholic Church, but also for the population of Molegbe and the province of North Ubangi. It marks the beginning of a new stage in the life of the archdiocese and represents an opportunity for renewal and spiritual growth.
Monsignor Likolo Bokal’Etumba, through his training and experience, will undoubtedly make his contribution to the evolution of the archdiocese of Molegbe. His appointment is a sign of confidence on the part of Pope Francis and the Catholic hierarchy in this prelate.
The faithful of the Archdiocese of Molegbe can therefore rejoice at the arrival of their new apostolic administrator. They will be able to count on his guidance and dedication to accompany them on the path of spirituality and to promote Christian values within the community.
This appointment also highlights the importance of the Catholic Church in Congolese society and recalls the commitment of the Congolese episcopate to promoting the spiritual and social well-being of the population.
In short, the appointment of Monsignor José Bernard Likolo Bokal’Etumba as apostolic administrator of the archdiocese of Molegbe testifies to the dynamic renewal of the Congolese Catholic Church and its desire to respond to the spiritual needs of its faithful. His presence will be a valuable support for the community of Molegbe and a testimony to the living presence of the church in the lives of the Congolese.