By Ayo Ronald
Kole, Uganda – Lira Diocese Bishop Sanctus Lino Wanok has called on Christians to reject idol worship and embrace a renewed commitment to Christ.
Addressing a congregation at St. Paul Catholic Church, Abongodero Hill Village, Aboke Subcounty, Kole District, on Thursday, November 28, 2024, the Bishop warned against clinging to old practices associated with small gods and urged believers to follow the example of the Apostle Paul.
“Paul’s transformation from a persecutor of Christians to a servant of Christ shows the power of true conversion. Christians must abandon their old ways and focus fully on God,” he said.
The Bishop’s remarks came as part of his four-day pastoral tour of Aboke Catholic Parish, which began on November 28 and will end on December 1, 2024.
The visit includes the inauguration of three new Eucharistic Centers—St. Joseph Chapel in Wipip, St. George Chapel in Apii, and St. Stephen Ober Chapel in Aboke Zone. These centers aim to enhance access to sacraments for remote communities.
During the tour, the Bishop is also performing confirmations, officiating holy matrimony ceremonies, and engaging in pastoral work with parishioners.
Rev. Fr. Vincent Orum, the Parish Priest of Aboke, welcomed Bishop Wanok with gratitude, highlighting the parish’s achievements since its establishment in 1956 April 15th as an offshoot of Ngetta Catholic Parish.
“Aboke Parish has made remarkable progress, producing 20 Catholic priests, 10 reverend sisters, and many others serving the Church. This is a testament to the faith and dedication of our community,” Fr. Orum said.
Parishioners and leaders expressed joy at the Bishop’s visit, which they described as a spiritual milestone for the community.
“The Bishop’s presence and his guidance are deeply uplifting. We feel inspired to strengthen our faith and live in accordance with God’s teachings,” said one of the parish leaders.
The establishment of new Eucharistic Centers has been lauded as a crucial step in bringing the Church closer to the people.
For many in remote areas, accessing sacraments has been a challenge, but these new centers are expected to address this gap.
Bishop Wanok concluded his sermon by challenging Christians to reflect on their faith journey. “The worship of small gods leads us away from Christ. We must renew our lives and fully dedicate ourselves to God, just as Paul did after his conversion,” he urged.
As the pastoral tour continues, the Bishop’s message of renewal, transformation, and accessibility is resonating with Christians across Aboke Parish.
The visit, which includes sacraments, Eucharistic inaugurations, and community engagements, is being hailed as a transformative moment for the parish’s spiritual growth and mission.
