-Liberian Leader Pays Tribute to Rev. Fathers Mombo and Biah as Catholic Community Bids Final Farewell
MONROVIA, Liberia – President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. on Wednesday paid a solemn condolence visit to the Catholic Archdiocese of Monrovia, joining the Catholic community in mourning the deaths of two prominent Liberian priests whose passing has generated national grief and ongoing public interest.
President Boakai visited the Archdiocesan Secretariat on Ashmun Street to express sympathy to the leadership of the Catholic Church and the families of the late Very Rev. Fr. Alphonsus B. Mombo and Very Rev. Fr. Roland G. Biah, both of whom died under circumstances that prompted a police investigation and forensic examinations.
The President was received by senior clergy of the Archdiocese, including officials representing Archbishop Gabriel Blamo Jubwe, as church leaders reflected on the painful loss of two priests widely regarded as dedicated servants of both the Church and the nation.
During the visit, church authorities briefed President Boakai on preparations for the priests’ funeral rites and memorial services while expressing appreciation for the President’s personal gesture of solidarity during what they described as a difficult period for the Catholic faithful.
The Liberian leader later signed the Book of Condolence and held private discussions with church leaders, reaffirming his respect for the Catholic Church’s contributions to Liberia’s development, peacebuilding efforts, education sector, and healthcare system.
A Nation Still Mourning
The deaths of Rev. Fathers Mombo and Biah shocked Liberia’s Catholic community and triggered widespread calls for a thorough investigation.
Rev. Fr. Mombo, who served as Rector of the St. Charles Lwanga Pre-Major Seminary in Paynesville, died on March 11, while Rev. Fr. Biah, Parish Priest of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in Gardnersville and Chaplain of the Archdiocesan Youth and Young Adult Association, died two days later on March 13.
The two clergymen reportedly became ill after traveling to Buchanan, Grand Bassa County, where they had attended funeral activities for a relative of one of the priests. Their sudden deaths fueled public concern and speculation, prompting calls from members of the Catholic community and civil society for an independent inquiry.
Police Investigation and Autopsy
In March, the Liberia National Police formally intervened and instructed the Catholic Church to suspend funeral arrangements while investigators examined the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
Authorities ordered that the remains be preserved and subjected to autopsies as part of efforts to scientifically determine the causes of death. The Archdiocese subsequently announced full cooperation with the investigation.
Earlier this month, police informed church authorities that all requested procedures, including forensic examinations, had been completed and authorized the release of the bodies for burial.
The development paved the way for funeral arrangements, including memorial services, a candlelight vigil, and a Mass of Resurrection.
Church Leaders Reflect on Loss
During President Boakai’s visit, members of the clergy spoke emotionally about the contributions of the two priests, describing them as committed spiritual leaders who dedicated their lives to pastoral service, youth development, religious formation, and community engagement.
Fr. Mombo was widely respected within the Catholic educational system for his leadership at the seminary, while Fr. Biah was known for his active role in youth ministry and church administration.
Church leaders noted that their deaths created a significant void within the Archdiocese and the broader Catholic community.
President Boakai’s Longstanding Relationship with the Church
The President’s condolence visit also reflected his administration’s close relationship with religious institutions across Liberia.
Throughout Liberia’s history, the Catholic Church has remained one of the country’s most influential institutions, playing major roles in education, healthcare delivery, peace advocacy, and humanitarian interventions.
During periods of national crisis, including Liberia’s civil conflicts and public health emergencies, the Church has consistently provided support to vulnerable communities while advocating for justice, reconciliation, and national unity.
President Boakai’s visit was widely viewed as a gesture of national solidarity and recognition of the immense contributions made by the Catholic Church to Liberia’s social and moral development.
Final Farewell
The Archdiocese of Monrovia is expected to hold a series of funeral activities culminating in a Mass of Resurrection and burial at the Queen of Peace Shrine in Virginia, outside Monrovia.
As preparations continue, many Liberians have continued to express sympathy to the Catholic community while awaiting the final conclusions of authorities regarding the circumstances surrounding the priests’ deaths.
For many faithful, however, the focus now turns to honoring the memories of two clergymen whose lives were devoted to service, faith, and the spiritual growth of countless Liberians.
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