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In a solemn ceremony infused with spirituality and tradition, Archbishop Gabriel Blamo Snosio Jubwe was officially ordained as the new Archbishop of the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Monrovia. The Sacred Heart Cathedral, located in the heart of the city, served as the backdrop for this memorable event, bringing together ecclesiastical delegates of international renown from the Vatican, the United States, Europe, and Africa.

Archbishop Jubwe was entrusted with the weighty responsibility of shepherding the flock of God in the Archdiocese of Monrovia, embodying the values of justice, human rights, and good governance fervently championed by his esteemed predecessor, the late Archbishop Francis. In his ordination speech reported by the RECOWACERAO NEWS AGENCY (RECONA) correspondent, the Apostolic Nuncio to Liberia, Archbishop Walter Erbi, representing Pope Francis, exhorted the new Archbishop to remain attentive to the needs of the most vulnerable, especially in these particularly difficult times, while underscoring the importance of leading in accordance with evangelical principles and in consultation with his collaborators.

Archbishop Jubwe thus becomes the third Archbishop to lead the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Monrovia, succeeding Archbishop Lewis Jerome Ziegler and Michael Kpakala Francis, both dearly missed. Archbishop Ziegler had resigned in 2021 before his passing in August 2022, leaving behind a precious legacy for his successors.

In his initial declarations as Archbishop, Archbishop Jubwe pledged to fulfill his mission with dedication, highlighting the potential for fruitful collaboration between the Church and the government to restore hope and fulfill the aspirations of the Liberian people. This inclusive and cooperative vision illustrates his commitment to society and his desire to contribute to the well-being of all citizens.

The ordination ceremony was followed by a thanksgiving Mass on Sunday, May 5, 2024, where the faithful had the opportunity to celebrate and pray for the new direction of their archdiocese.

In a show of respect and recognition for Archbishop Jubwe, eminent personalities such as former Liberian President George Weah extended warm congratulations on the occasion of his ordination. They also lauded the Catholic Church and its clergy for their role as a moral voice in Liberian society, as well as for their ongoing contribution to the promotion of peace and democracy in the country.

The appointment of Archbishop Gabriel Blamo Snosio Jubwe as Metropolitan Archbishop of Monrovia on February 28 by Pope Francis was perceived as a significant milestone in the history of the Church in Liberia. Prior to his appointment, Archbishop Jubwe served as diocesan administrator and parish priest of St. Pius X Parish, acquiring valuable experience and wisdom that will undoubtedly serve him well in his new mission.

Rev. Fr. George Nwachukwu