Bishop of Barentu (Eritrean)
Abba Thomas Osman, O.F.M. Cap., was born in Lemuna, in the Gash-Barka region (Diocese of Asmara, Eritrea), on May 25, 1950. He entered the novitiate of the Order of Friars Minor Capuchin on July 13, 1969. He made his first profession on July 18, 1970, and his perpetual profession on July 19, 1976. He was ordained a priest in Asmara on July 10, 1977, having completed his formal studies in philosophy (three years in Addis Ababa) and theology (four years in Asmara). Following his ordination, he was sent to Ethiopia, where he served for about ten years as a parish priest and superior in the Gurage Mission (Archdiocese of Addis Ababa). Upon returning to Eritrea, he carried out his pastoral ministry in the Kunama region. He served as the third Definitor (Councilor) of the Province of Eritrea from 1993 to 1996. For the past five years, he has served as Protosyncellus of the Eparchy of Barentu and as personal secretary to Msgr. Luca Milesi, Bishop Emeritus of Barentu.