The Diocese of Makeni recently celebrated the 25th silver jubilee priestly anniversary of Fr. Dominic Johnson and Fr. George Gbamanja in a significant ceremony held on November 1, 2025, which coincided with the feast of All Saints Day. The event took place in Fr. Johnson’s hometown of Makoth, Mambolo Chiefdom, Kambia District, drawing a large congregation and a delegation from the University of Makeni (UNIMAK). Bishop Bob John H. Koroma, who presides over the Diocese of Makeni, celebrated the mass. During his address, Bishop Koroma welcomed by the community, emphasized that all Catholics are “saints in the making” and expressed profound gratitude for the two priests’ dedicated service, acknowledging their positive impact on the diocese and the wider community over the past 25 years. The coincidence with All Saints Day reinforced the theme of holiness and exemplary service in the priesthood.
The spiritual highlight of the mass was the inspiring homily delivered by Fr. Emmanuel Sesay, who reflected on the lives and ministry of Fr. Johnson and Fr. Gbamanja. Fr. Sesay recalled their ordination on November 1, 2000, by the late Bishop George Biguzi and celebrated their “shining legacy of service.” He used the opportunity to encourage the faithful to aspire to heaven by cultivating humility and rejecting pride. Furthermore, the occasion was marked by a noteworthy announcement from Bishop Koroma: he shared congratulatory messages from the Nuncio in Liberia and revealed that Pope Leo XIII had appointed Fr. Dominic Johnson as a Monsignor, thereby honoring him with the new title Monsignor Dominic Johnson.
The celebration underscored a moment of appreciation and renewed commitment for the Catholic community in Sierra Leone. Regina Kalawa, a staff member of the University of Makeni, was among many congregants who praised the priests, describing them as “hard-working and committed” to their work both at UNIMAK and in the broader community. The joyful atmosphere reflected the parishioners’ deep appreciation for the contributions of Fr. Johnson and Fr. Gbamanja. Fr. Johnson, speaking on behalf of both jubilarians, affirmed their continued dedication, stating they will “do more in their ministry” in the vineyard of the Lord within the Diocese of Makeni, marking the event not just a look back at two decades of service but also a hopeful look forward.
