First Ordination to Priesthood in the South African SCJ Province after 12 Years
P. Zachaeus Tembo, the new priest, will work in the field of formation.
The South African Province of the Priests of the Sacred Heart rejoices with the ordination to the sacramental priesthood of the first SCJ priest from Zambia, Fr Zachaeus Tembo. The last ordination to priesthood in the Province was in 2009 which makes the South African SCJs happy.
Originally, Fr Tembo is from Lusaka and has been with the SCJs for more than 10 years. Last year he completed his theological studies at St Joseph’s Theological Institute, Cedara and had been placed for diaconal experience in the Diocese of Aliwal North.
On the 22 October 2022 , Fr Tembo was ordained to the presbyterate together with two other diocesan priests by the Aliwal bishop, Bishop Joseph Maria Kizito in the Aliwal Cathedral. The ordination was attended by more than 500 people that included Fr Tembo’s closest family, the SCJs, and the faithful from the ecclesial communities he served as deacon.
After some pastoral experience, the intention of the Province is to send Fr Tembo for preparation for formation since this ministry requires priority in our entity due to influx of numerous vocations in recent years.
We wish the newly ordained the Lord’s blessing and presence in his priesthood and ministry.
