By Festus Poquie
Pope Francis has chosen the Very Rev. Monsignor Dr. Blamo Jubwe as the Archbishop of the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Monrovia, filling the position left vacant by the retirement and passing of his predecessor, Lewis Jerome Zeigler, in August 2022.
Archbishop Walter Erbi, the Apostolic Nuncio of Sierra Leone and Liberia, announced the appointment on Wednesday at the Secred Heart Cathedral Parish in Monrovia. Rev. Dr. Jubwe, who was ordained as a priest in 1983, has shown a deep commitment to the Church throughout his 40-year career, serving in various capacities. Known for his conservative values, he opposes same-sex marriage and abortion in Liberia.
Currently the Pastor of St Pius X Parish in Firestone, Margibi County, and the Diocesan Administrator of the Archdiocese of Monrovia, Rev. Dr. Jubwe expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve as Archbishop in an interview with Radio Maria and the Oracle News Daily.
“I humbly accept the appointment as the Archbishop of Monrovia,” he said.
The Archbishop-elect explained his primary focus will be on reforming the Church and engaging with the country’s authorities to foster national unity and promote social and economic development for the well-being of the 5.5 million people of Liberia.
These priorities align with the Church’s mission of salvation, peace, and reconciliation.
He also acknowledged the challenges faced by the Church, particularly in terms of its institutional structure and pastoral work, and emphasized the need for stability and unity.
With the passing of Michael Francis and the retirement of Lewis Zeigler, the Church is experiencing a period of transition,” he said.
Therefore, he views it as crucial to rebuild and reform from within, setting standards that will restore stability. Once the Church has achieved this, we can extend our efforts to become a symbol of unity and reconciliation for the country, he added.
Liberia is currently divided along political lines, and Rev. Dr. Jubwe sees this as an opportunity for the Church to bridge the gaps and bring people together.
“I aspire to be a Bishop who unifies and reconciles, not just for a particular group of individuals, but for everyone,” he stated.
“I want to be a father figure who fosters unity and reconciliation among all people.”
The new Archbishop ordination is expected in 90 days to begin his official episcopal regime as head of the nearly 200,000 Catholics in Liberia.
