MONROVIA, Liberia — August 10, 2026 —In a ceremony filled with profound gratitude, solemn emotions, and deep ecclesial appreciation, the Catholic Church in Liberia gathered at the Sacred Heart Cathedral on Monday, August 10, 2026, for a Send-Off Mass and Farewell Reception honoring the departing Apostolic Nuncio,
Most Reverend Walter Erbì.The historic occasion brought together church leadership, civil dignitaries, and the faithful from across the nation to celebrate Archbishop Erbì’s dedicated service and diplomatic ministry in Liberia.A Gathering of Church and StateThe Send-Off Mass was graced by high-profile figures from both the Church and public life.
Among those in attendance were:Most Rev. Anthony Richard Fallah Borwah, President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Liberia (CABICOL),Most Rev. Dr. Gabriel Blamo Jubwe, Archbishop of Monrovia, Rev. Fr. Tayee Francis Boley, SMA, President of the Conference of Religious and Major Superiors of Liberia, H.E. Amb. Beng’yela A. Gang,
The Dean of the Diplomatic Corps in Liberia, alongside government officials, a number of priests, religious men and women , Cllr. Andrew Nimley, Jr., President, National Laity Council,, seminarians, catechists, and representatives of lay organizations, pious associations, and fraternal societies.The atmosphere throughout the cathedral reflected a mixture of heartfelt sentiment and prayerful gratitude as the local Church honored the diplomat who helped guide it through a pivotal era.A Legacy of “Meticulous Stewardship”-
During the celebrations, the Metropolitan Archbishop of Monrovia, Most Rev. Dr. Gabriel Blamo Jubwe, delivered a moving tribute hailing Archbishop Erbì for his exceptional service and pastoral care toward the Archdiocese and the wider Church in Liberia.
Reflecting on the Nuncio’s impact, Archbishop Jubwe highlighted Erbì’s central role in fostering strong leadership and stability within the Liberian episcopacy, particularly during key transitions:”Archbishop Erbì’s tenure was a meticulous stewardship in facilitating the appointment of the new Archbishop of Monrovia—that is me,” Archbishop Gabriel noted.
“This transition of power stands as a hallmark of effective ecclesial diplomacy and pastoral foresight.”Archbishop Jubwe emphasized how the outgoing Nuncio balanced high-level Vatican diplomacy with deep respect for the local faithful:”Archbishop Erbì ensured a smooth and prayerful process, providing guidance and support that respected local contexts and aspirations of the Liberian Church. These accomplishments reflect his profound understanding of the Church’s hierarchical communion and his dedication to continuity in pastoral leadership.”
Acknowledging that the Nuncio’s mission was not without its difficulties, Archbishop Jubwe added, “We must also acknowledge the challenges he met,” praising Erbì’s resilience, wisdom, and steadfast commitment to the mission of the Holy See in West Africa.Honoring a Faithful Servant-
The farewell reception following the Mass provided an opportunity for clergy, diplomats, and lay leaders to express personal well-wishes to Archbishop Erbì as he prepares for his next mission.As the Catholic Church in Liberia turns a new page, the departure of Most Rev. Walter Erbì leaves behind a legacy defined by diplomatic grace, prayerful discernment, and an enduring commitment to the growth of the local Church.