Monrovia – On Tuesday, September 10, seven new members of the College of Consultors of the Archdiocese of Monrovia took the Oath of Fidelity and Secrecy during a solemn ceremony led by Most Rev. Dr. Gabriel Blamo Jubwe at the Sacred Heart Cathedral.
The event, which began at 1 PM, was part of an orientation organized by the Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia, Very Rev. Fr. Ambrose Dayouga Kroma. The orientation emphasized the role, importance, and functions of the College in the administration and governance of the Archdiocese.
The Metropolitan Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Monrovia, Most Rev. Gabriel Blamo Jubwe initiated the ceremony with a short prayer service and personally administered the oath. Each priest placed their right hand on the Book of the Gospel, made the Profession of Faith, and took the Oath of Fidelity and Secrecy before the Archbishop at the Holy Altar.
During the orientation, Archbishop Jubwe stressed the vital importance of confidentiality within the College, stating, “The lack of confidentiality weakens the credibility of the College.” He also underscored the significance of moral character, faith, and integrity among the College members, highlighting that priests should exemplify these qualities to gain the trust of the lay faithful.
“The lack of confidentiality weakens the credibility of the college”, the Archbishop said. The Archbishop also raised the issue of perception of priests amongst the lay faithful adding that members of the college of consultors and all priests for that matter should be of great moral character, faith and integrity.
The newly reconstituted members of the College of Consultors are:
– Very Rev. Fr. Ambrose Dayouga Kroma
– Very Rev. Fr. Mcdonald Nah
– Very Rev. Fr. Patrick Kabba
– Very Rev. Fr. Roland G. Biah
– Very Rev. Fr. Sony Joseph Pattenplakeal, SDB
– Very Rev. Fr. Valentine J.V.K. Vordzorgbe
– Very Rev. Fr. Alphonsus M. Mombo
The College of Consultors is a required body in every diocese and is presided over by the diocesan bishop. Its role is to assist the bishop in governance and administration in accordance with Church law. In certain instances of ecclesiastical governance, Canon Law mandates that the diocesan bishop consult the College and, in some cases, even obtain its consent.
General Overview
Upon assuming leadership of a diocese, the new bishop must reconstitute the College of Consultors. Comprised of no fewer than six and no more than twelve priests from the Presbyteral Council, the College is appointed by the diocesan bishop. Each College serves a five-year term but remains in function until a new College is constituted, including during a vacant or impeded see.
Key Functions
The College’s functions, governed by various canons, focus primarily on diocesan governance and administration. While its role is largely consultative and advisory, its input on crucial matters can influence diocesan decisions.
Selection Criteria
Members are chosen based on their wealth of experience in the priesthood, sense of judgment, moral character, wisdom, and prudence. They are expected to uphold high human virtues and maintain a good reputation.
