By Dr. Sheila Pires
I officially met Bishop Osório in 2025 during the IMBISA Golden Jubilee. From our very first encounter, I was struck by his simplicity, humility, and sense of humour. In January 2026, I received a WhatsApp call from an Italian number. The profile picture displayed the coat of arms of the Diocese of Quelimane, and I wondered who might be calling. I answered, and to my surprise, it was Bishop Osório himself.
He began by commending the work I have been doing at the Southern African Catholic Bishops’ Conference (SACBC) and then explained the reason for his call. He spoke about his desire to implement reforms in the Diocese of Quelimane and his vision of building a truly synodal Diocese. He shared his plans with me and asked if I would facilitate a number of sessions on synodality for the priests of the Diocese. I gladly accepted the invitation. Only later did I realise the significance and importance of the mission he was entrusting to me.
The slain Bishop Osório Citora Afonso.
We began this journey in May. Two separate sessions were held with different groups of priests. Bishop Osório had organised the clergy into three groups: newly ordained priests, priests with several years of ministry, and finally, the more experienced priests. The third session was scheduled for 16 June.
We spoke several times about this final gathering. Our last conversation took place just last Tuesday. During that conversation, he expressed his gratitude for the two sessions that had already taken place. He had participated actively in both, not only as a Bishop but as a member of the community, joining group discussions and sharing his reflections. He was enthusiastic and looked forward with great anticipation to the session on 16 June.
Later this year, we were also planning to hold in-person synodality gatherings involving the entire Diocese. Bishop Osório did not merely speak about synodality; he lived it. In a video shared on social media, he can be seen engaging in dialogue with members of the Muslim community, bearing witness to his commitment to interreligious dialogue and ecumenism, essential elements of a Synodal Church. He also entrusted a lay woman with the responsibility of coordinating the synodal process in the Diocese, recognising the vital role of the laity and valuing the gifts and talents they bring to the mission of the Church.
Bishop Osório believed in a Church where everyone has a voice, where all walk together, and where each person is called to participate in the life and mission of the Christian community. I will always be grateful for his trust, friendship, and witness. Thank you for believing in synodality and for working tirelessly to make it a reality in the Diocese of Quelimane. Rest in peace, Bishop Osório. May the Lord welcome you into the fullness of His peace and mercy.
Editor’s Note: This eulogy is courtesy of SECAM SCEAM.
