First Ethiopian priest of the community

This Saturday, November 22, 2025, we received the gift of our first Ethiopian brother who became a priest. After a long process of preparation, Brother Yakob became a priest in the cathedral of Meki, his hometown, where his brother priest is a parish priest.

What was his background?

• Yakob started his journey with us in 2014 in Addis AbabaAfter a life school in Addis Ababa, he entered the postulancy during which he learned French in Addis and then in Cameroon.
• He was admitted to the novitiate at Simbock.
• Then he returned to Addis to complete his philosophy.
• It was in Rimont, France, that he studied theology before leaving for his first mission in London where he is now completing his third year of activity. He was ordained a deacon in September 2024 in St Anthony’s Parish in London.

Alreay, this summer, we had the joy of hosting a summer camps with him this August. Especially, a memorable formation camp in Hawassa with 50 young people.

A wonderful day

This Saturday, November 22, Abuna Abraham, bishop of Meki, ordained him a priest. The celebration was magnificent: the songs, the joy, the decoration, the liturgy… The church was filled with young people, friends, parishioners, religious and all those who followed us online from London. It was an undeniable testimony of affection for him and the interest in this stage of his journey.

The following days

The next day Abba Yakob celebrated his first Mass in the cathedral of Meki, soon followed by many more masses to share the grace received. On November 30, it was at the priory, surrounded by families, students, friends, Oblates of the community, etc. that he celebrated a first mass followed by a traditional breakfast.

Have a good journey and good ministry, dear Brother Abba Yakob!