Thanksgiving mass |18 December 2020

The mass in full swing (Photos: Jude Morel)

Bishop emeritus Denis Wiehe wishes for better unity within the Roman Catholic diocese

Bishop emeritus Denis Wiehe said that his greatest wish, as he leaves the Diocese of Port Victoria in the hands of new Bishop Alain Harel, is better unity within the Roman Catholic diocese and the Seychellois community.

Bishop Wiehe made his heartfelt wish known during a special thanksgiving mass held yesterday at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception to celebrate his 19 years heading the diocese.

The 5pm mass was attended by Bishop Harel, Catholic priests from various parishes and a decent number of faithfuls.

He noted that the Church and the society at large are faced with a myriad of challenges including drugs and broken families, and these can only be successfully addressed through unity.

“Priests should also work together for the betterment of the Church. They should understand that it is not only their parish that is important but the diocese as a whole, hence solidarity between parishes is necessary,” said Bishop Wiehe.

His message for collaborative work was also extended to the various movements within the diocese, with the Bishop noting that they can make an even greater impact to the community if they work together instead of in isolation.

Bishop Wiehe expressed his sadness at his retirement but added that he is leaving the helm of the Catholic Church in Seychelles in capable hands.

Bishop Harel officially took over from Bishop Wiehe earlier this month, on December 8, following the resignation of the latter from pastoral charge of the diocese of Port Victoria.

Bishop Wiehe served the Seychelles from 2001 to 2020.

Elsie Pointe