Rev. Fr. Samuel Ebietu Urges Newly Ordained Priest to Serve with Love and Commitment

By EKou Richard

Rev. Fr. Samuel Ebietu Urges Newly Ordained Priest to Serve with Love and Commitment

The Parish Priest of Wera Catholic Parish, Rev. Fr. Samuel Ebietu, has called on Rev. Fr. William Omoda Onyait to remain committed, focused and loving in his priestly ministry. He made these remarks during a thanksgiving Mass held at Fr. William’s home in Alakauituk Olianai, Wera Parish, as the community gathered to celebrate the gift of a new priest.

The thanksgiving ceremony, filled with joy and deep spiritual reflection, brought together hundreds of Christians, family members and well-wishers to honor Fr. William, who was recently ordained in Moroto Catholic diocese after an inspiring journey of 16 years in priestly formation.

“We thank God that this has come to reality,” Fr. Ebietu said. “Fr. William, you have been chosen among many people and made their representative before God. This is a special calling and a sacred mission.”

Fr. Ebietu expressed heartfelt appreciation to the people of Fr. William’s clan for their unwavering support throughout Fr. William’s journey. “Thank you for allowing your son to serve the Church as a priest,” he noted. “Your prayers, sacrifices and encouragement have brought us to this great day. Let us continue supporting him spiritually as he begins his priestly mission.”

He further encouraged the Christians to keep praying for Fr. William, emphasizing that priesthood is a demanding vocation that requires both grace and community support. “Our work does not end here, keep him in your prayers so that he remains strong and faithful to his calling,” he said.

In his homily, Fr. Ebietu gave church fatherly advice, urging them not to give Fr. William a lot of burdens in his service. “Do not overburden your priest” he cautioned. Instead he urged them to support him spiritually and materially.

He went on to share practical and spiritual guidance for the new priest: Remain focused on your mission, Stay committed to your vocation despite challenges, Love the people you have been appointed to serve, Leave a good legacy wherever you go, Do not forget your home and roots.

Reflecting on advice given to him during his seminary formation, Fr. Ebietu recalled profound words of wisdom:

“My son, as you go out to do God’s work, go and love the people. Love the elderly, love the children, and even love their dead. If you do that, people will love you back.”

These words, he said, remain a guiding principle for every priest. He urged Fr. William to keep them alive in his ministry, emphasizing that love and compassion are the foundation of effective pastoral service.

Fr. William’s path to priesthood was a long and determined one, spanning 16 years of formation and study. His story is a testament to resilience, obedience, and strong faith. The congregation praised his perseverance, acknowledging that his ordination is not only a personal milestone but also a blessing to the entire Christian community of Wera Parish and beyond.

Fr. Ebietu concluded his message by appealing to Christians to walk hand in hand with their priests. “A priest cannot work alone,” he said. “Support him with your prayers, respect, and cooperation so that together we can build a strong Church rooted in faith and love.”