The Vatican Dicastery for Evangelization has suspended the training of seminarians in the Diocese of Wamba in northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo, citing what it called a “difficult ecclesial environment” that undermines priestly formation, Catholic News Agency (CNA) has reported.
In a letter dated October 7, Bishop Sosthène Ayikuli Udjuwa, the apostolic administrator of Wamba Diocese, informed seminarians of the Vatican’s directive and said the suspension would remain in force until the situation stabilizes.
The decision follows a leadership dispute in the diocese. Bishop Emmanuel Ngona Ngotsi, appointed in January 2024 as the new ordinary, has not yet taken canonical possession of his office. His appointment was met with resistance from sections of the clergy and laity who insist that the diocese should be led by a native of the region.
According to CNA, Bishop Ayikuli said the Dicastery for Evangelization found it “entirely inappropriate” to continue priestly formation under current conditions and has therefore ordered a suspension until further notice.
Seminarians who wish to continue formation may apply to other dioceses or religious institutes after discernment. The suspension affects St. Leo Minor Seminary in Lingondo, one of the diocese’s main formation centers, which has been deemed noncompliant with ecclesial standards.
Bishop Ayikuli, who also leads Mahagi-Nioka Diocese, assured seminarians of his support and pledged to guide them through the transition.
“I am prepared to accompany the seminarians in their choices and in carrying them out, particularly concerning the written application to the local ordinary of the chosen diocese,” he said.
CNA noted that the Wamba crisis reflects wider challenges in Church leadership transitions across Africa, where regional and ethnic loyalties often shape reactions to episcopal appointments. The Vatican has not said when seminary formation in Wamba may resume.
