Waves of grief are sweeping across Liberia’s Catholic community following the mysterious death of Reverend Father Alphonsus B. Mombo at the St. Joseph Catholic Hospital, while Reverend Father Roland Biahand is fighting for his life on oxygen. The news has left priests, parishioners, and family members in deep shock and prayer.
According to earlier reports, the two clergymen had recently returned from a pastoral visit in Grand Bassa County, where they reportedly consumed food allegedly containing poison.
Shortly after, both priests allegedly became critically ill and were rushed to the St. Joseph Catholic Hospital, leading to the death of one.
The Archdiocese of Monrovia on Thursday, March 12, 2026, confirmed the passing of Father Mombo, who served as Rector of the St. Charles Lwanga Pre-Major Seminary in Pipeline.
According to the letter signed by the Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia, the 57-year-old priest died on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, after a brief illness.
In the communication, the Archdiocese of Monrovia described Father Mombo as a faithful and generous servant whose commitment to the formation of priests and service to the Church will be remembered with gratitude.
Church authorities have called on priests and faithfuls across the archdiocese to celebrate Holy Mass and pray the Rosary for the repose of Father Mombo’s soul.
While the Church mourns his death, concern is also mounting for Father Roland Biah, the Pastor of the Anthony of Padua Parish, who is currently battling for his life under critical medical care.
One priest, speaking with visible grief, said the loss of Father Mombo and the critical condition of Father Biah have left many in the priesthood devastated.
“These men are not just priests to us; they are our brothers. We serve together, pray together, and support one another in ministry. Losing one and seeing another struggling for life is extremely painful for the entire Church,” the priest said quietly.
While details surrounding the illness remain unclear, the incident has generated widespread concern within the religious community.
Also speaking with family members of Father Mombo, they described the news of his passing as a heartbreaking blow, noting that the late priest dedicated most of his life to the service of God and humanity.
“He was a man who lived for the Church and for the people. His life was about faith, teaching, and guiding others. We never expected to lose him so suddenly,” a relative said in tears.
The Archbishop’s office has instructed Catholic parishes in Monrovia and other parts of Liberia to begin gathering for special prayers, lighting candles, and remembering the life of Father Mombo, while praying fervently for Father Biah’s recovery.
Also, many parishioners, mostly on social media, have recalled Father Mombo as a humble servant who devoted his life to the formation of young men preparing for the priesthood.
“He helped shape the future priests of this country,” one said, while another recounted that the late priest was his teacher during high school days in Bomi County.
Meanwhile, prayers continue to pour in for Father Roland Biah as the Catholic community hopes for a miracle in his condition.
As the Church mourns one of its devoted shepherds and anxiously waits for the recovery of another, Liberia’s Catholic faithful remain united in prayer, grief, and hope.
