Community Rallies in Solidarity: Prayers for the Safe Return of Fr. Luke and Mr. Gbeko
Community Rallies in Solidarity: Prayers for the Safe Return of Fr. Luke and Mr. Gbeko
By Deacon Felix Assis
In the sober shadows cast by uncertainty, the congregation gathered on 5th, May 2024 with hearts heavy yet resilient, to honor the unwavering spirit of Father. Luke Yugue and his driver Mr. Gbeko. Amidst the turmoil of his abduction by a rebellion group, Bishop Barani Eduardo Hiiboro Kussala the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Tobura-Yambio (CDTY) presided over a mass imbued with prayers of hope and solidarity. Faithful from all over Yambio, Christians of St. Augustine, St. Bakita, and St. John the Baptist gathered to pray for Fr. Luke and his driver.
Mass for the Missing
The mass commenced with hymns of hope and prayers for the safe return of Fr. Luke and his driver Mr. Gbeko whose absence left a palpable void in the hearts of parishioners of Nagero and the wider community. Bishop Hiiboro, adorned in ceremonial vestments, delivered a heartfelt sermon, urging steadfast faith amidst adversity and emphasizing the power of collective prayer in times of crisis.
As incense wafted through the air, mingling with the fervent petitions of the faithful, the prelate invoked divine protection over Fr. Luke and his driver Mr. Gbeko, and all those affected by the ongoing turmoil at Tombura. Each candle lit on the Altar symbolized a beacon of hope, illuminating the path toward reconciliation and peace.
Silent Peace Rally
Following the solemn Mass, a silent peace rally unfolded outside the St. Mary’s Parish to St. Bakita’s Parish thousands and thousands of faithful gathered to express solidarity and prayed for the safe return of Fr. Luke and Michel. Holding post on one hand and the other hand Rosary marched towards the streets of Yambio, embodying the unwavering resolve of a community united in adversity.
Amid the uncertainty, Bishop Hiiboro's leadership shone as a beacon of hope, guiding his flock through the darkness with unwavering faith. As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting its golden hues upon the gathering, there was a palpable sense of unity, of strength drawn from the bonds of community.
After reaching St. Mary’s Church, the words of the bishop touched the hearts and souls of each individual gathered for the Mass, he had urged the Catholics that the way we take to find Fr. Luke Yugue and Mr. Gbeko is the way to peace, reconciliation, and forgiveness, not any other way.
After imparting his Episcopal blessing on the people of God, urging them to pray and be the peacemakers of Christ in their words and deeds and thus become altar Christ on earth.
