South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"
By Waure Eddy
The Diocese of Tombura-Yambio came together in joyful celebration this week as Rev. Fr. Ezekiel Sungerukuari, parish priest of Corpus Christi Catholic Parish in Gangura Payam, commemorated his 25th anniversary of priesthood.
Ordained in 2000 by Cardinal Gabriel Zubeir Wako in Khartoum, Rev. Sungerukuari has dedicated his life to serving various parishes within the Catholic Diocese of Tombura-Yambio. He also spent a significant period ministering in Khartoum before returning to his home diocese.
Rev. Fr. Ezekiel Sungerukuari thanked God for His protection throughout his time in the priesthood, from his ordination in 2000 to the present, as he continues to serve God’s people through prayer.
“Today, I’m very happy to celebrate my 25 years in the priesthood under the Catholic Diocese of Tombura-Yambio, and I will continue serving the people of God as a priest until the end of my life,” Fr. Ezekiel said.
“I thank all my fellow priests for joining hands to support me; this is the spirit of God’s work, as well as my Christians, the government, local leaders, and all the different departments in the Church,” he added.
The anniversary Mass, held at Corpus Christi Church on Monday, June 23, 2025, was presided over by Rev. Thomas Bagbiowia, the Vicar General of the Catholic Diocese of Tombura-Yambio.
In his homily, Rev. Bagbiowia described the priesthood as a sacred vocation, emphasising that God chooses men to shepherd His people through the spiritual journey toward eternal life.
“Priests are called to be beacons of hope and faith,” he reminded the congregation. He extended heartfelt congratulations to Rev. Sungerukuari for his unwavering commitment over the past quarter century.
“It’s a call from Almighty God to be a priest and to carry out God’s work well until the end of life. As we celebrate our fellow colleagues in the priesthood, we need to show him love. Completing 25 years is not an easy journey; thank God that through Him everything is possible,” Rev. Thomas said.
The event drew a wide array of attendees, including fellow clergy, parishioners, local choirs, representatives of organised forces in Gangura Payam, community leaders, and the broader Catholic faithful.
The atmosphere was filled with music, thanksgiving, and a profound sense of unity as community members reflected on the priest’s enduring legacy of compassion and service.
Rev. Sungerukuari’s journey continues to inspire many in the region, particularly at a time when spiritual leadership and resilience are more vital than ever.
