Br. Anatole Gnamien was ordained a deacon on Oct. 17, in Abidjan in the Ivory Coast, taking him one step closer to the priesthood. Here, he answers some questions about his background and how he came to join the Viatorian Community.

Br. Anatole Gnamien

My name is Anatole Camille GNAMIEN; born 14/07/1980.
Of Christian family, I was baptized at 11 years old, in Abidjan. Very young, I already had the desire to become a priest. I became involved with the vocation group in my parish and I had an experience in the middle school. After the baccalaureate, I decided to go to university to mature my vocation.

It was there, when I started studying literature at the University of Abidjan, that I met the Viatorians at the university parish of St. Albert le Grand. I then joined their vocational research group to get to know them better and this led to my commitment to the Congregation.

I was therefore attracted by the presence of the Viatorians in schools and universities and by their educational approach emphasizing human formation.

Br. Anatole, far right, with Fr. Francios Koffi, back row, Superior of the foundation of Ivory Coast, and three brothers who made their perpetual vows.

I was in the Novitiate from October 2003 through July 2005, took 1st vows on July 03, 2005 and perpetual vows on June 27, 2010.
Beginning in 2005, I studied in Religious and Educational Sciences, English and Music.
For the next few years I worked in various ministries of the Congregation such as:
Teacher of English and Music at CSV Abidjan, Animator of Pastoral and extra-curricular activities at the S V College of Abidjan and Bouaké, and Director of the Conservatory of Music at St Viateur of Abidjan.

Br. Anatole is an accomplished musician.

In recent years, I have returned to university to complete my training in Philosophy and Theology with a view to the diaconate (which I received on 17/10/2020) and the presbyterate. Currently: I have been appointed General Manager of the Collège Charles Lwanga of Ferké.

I think that the future of the Viatorian Community in Ivory Coast is promising with a great presence of young African religious who are more and more formed and who will be able to take in hand the works inherited from our Elders and even open new ones. It seems to me, however, that more priests will be needed, not only to serve the local communities, but also to respond to the demands of the dioceses where we are located.