During the celebration of the Thirteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Auxiliary Bishop of Juba, Bishop Santo Loku Pio Doggale, called on Christians to support those dedicated to preaching the Gospel and to live faithfully according to their baptismal calling.
Reflecting on the day’s Scripture readings, Bishop Santo said the faithful should welcome and care for priests, bishops, deacons, catechists, religious brothers and sisters, and all who dedicate their lives to proclaiming the Good News. He recalled the example from the First Reading, where a generous family received God’s blessing through the prophet after showing hospitality.
The Bishop urged Christians to distinguish between genuine messengers of God and those who seek to bring harm, stressing that Christian hospitality should always be guided by wisdom and faith. He also reminded the faithful that baptism calls every believer to share in Christ’s mission by serving others, defending the vulnerable, and becoming “salt and light” in society.
Quoting the Gospel, “Whoever does not take up his cross is not worthy of me,” Bishop Santo encouraged Christians to embrace their responsibilities with courage and generosity, saying that every vocation and sacrifice contributes to God’s plan of salvation.
At the conclusion of the celebration, Bishop Santo, on behalf of His Eminence, Cardinal Stephen Ameyu Martin Mulla, Metropolitan Archbishop of Juba, officially announced that the chapel in Wurjang Village would henceforth be known as St. George Chapel, Wurjang. The chapel’s patronal feast will be celebrated annually on April 23.
The Bishop described St. George as one of Christianity’s most revered martyrs, remembered for his unwavering faith, courage, and commitment to Christ. He noted that the saint’s enduring legacy symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and continues to inspire Christians around the world to live with faith, courage, and service.
The faithful concluded the celebration by invoking their new patron, praying together: “St. George, pray for us.”