TANZANIA: Bishop Filbert Mhasi Installed As New Bishop of Tunduru Masasi
Bishop Filbert Felician Mhasi the newly ordained Bishop of Tunduru Masasi and H.E. Polycarp Cardinal Pengo, the first Bishop of Tunduru Masasi
Rt. Rev. Filbert Mhasi has been installed as the fourth Bishop of the Diocese of Tunduru Masasi, following his appointment by the Holy Father Pope Francis on 8 December 2018. The Diocese has been without a bishop since October 2017 when Rt. Rev. Castor Paul Msemwa passed on.
Addressing the congregation during the installation ceremony at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral on 17th February 2019, the President of Tanzania Episcopal Conference (TEC) Most Rev. Gervas Nyaisonga expressed his gratitude to the Holy Father and the new bishop and urged the faithful in the Diocese of Tunduru Masasi to live and work together in unity and solidarity.
“Live as a family which is characterized by harmony, love and solidarity within your Diocese. Work together with your new bishop. Demonstrate the family life and sincere commitment which appears among family members. You should see him as a father who is a refuge and advocate; and the father should see that you as family members who will comfort and encourage him in his mission. Live the principle of togetherness,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of the President of the United Republic of Tanzania Dr. John Magufuli at the function, the Minister of Law and Constitution Professor Palamagamba Kabudi said that the Catholic Church has become an important partner in helping the country in formation of an ethical society.
He has urged the Church to focus on shaping the youth to become responsible and respectable members of society.
“For many years the Catholic Church has provided spiritual, economic and social support to our nation. The Church is doing a lot in sectors like education, health, care for people with disabilities, the elderly and ethical formation for Tanzanians in general. Continue to offer to our young people moral values, urging them to desist drug abuse and gambling” he said.
His Eminence Polycarp Cardinal Pengo, Archbishop of Dar es salaam was the principal Consecrator during a colourful ceremony which was attended by hundreds of the faithful from across the Diocese and beyond.
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By Pascal Mwanache
