Lira City, Uganda – A new chapter of faith and growth has begun for Christians in Anai, Lira City, as St. Peter’s Anai Sub-Parish was on Sunday February 16, 2025 officially elevated to a full Catholic Parish in a historic celebration attended by religious and political leaders.
The announcement was made by Rt. Rev. Sanctus Lino Wanok, Bishop of Lira Diocese, through a decree read by Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Opio, Chancellor and Parish Priest of Lira Cathedral.
The Bishop dedicated the newly established St. Peter’s Anai Catholic Parish to St. Peter the Apostle, emphasizing the need for unity, discernment, and faithfulness among Christians.
For many, this milestone was the result of years of dedication and sacrifice. Rev. Fr. Isaac Ojok, the first Parish Priest of Anai, described the moment as a testament to the perseverance and faith of the Christian community.
“This achievement reflects the tireless efforts and contributions of our people,” Fr. Ojok said. “We thank Bishop Wanok for his fatherly leadership and for making this long-held dream a reality.”
The new parish will serve seven chapels across two zones—Anai and Boke—providing spiritual guidance to thousands of Catholics in the region.
The establishment of Anai Parish attracted high-profile leaders, including Minister of Health Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero and Minister of Gender, Labour, and Social Development Betty Amongi Akena.
During the celebration, Ojok Joel Roko, Head Teacher of Anai Primary School, appealed to the ministers to support much-needed school infrastructure, highlighting critical challenges such as:
• Lack of latrines and changing rooms for girls
• Inadequate classrooms for pupils with disabilities
• Insufficient teacher accommodations
He further called for the construction of a health facility in Anai, citing the growing population and the need for better healthcare services.
Several leaders and organizations made financial contributions to support the new parish:
• Minister Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero: 20 million UGX for church pews
• Minister Betty Amongi Akena: 10 million UGX to the Women’s Guild and 10 million UGX for church development
• Hon. Vincent Cedric Obong Eyit (MP Lira City West): 2 million UGX for parish activities
• Caritas Lira: Donated chairs worth 1 million UGX
Local leaders, including Lira City West Mayor Rose Ongom and Lira City East Mayor George Okello Ayoo, also graced the occasion, reinforcing the importance of faith-based development in the community.
With the elevation of Anai to parish status, Lira Diocese now comprises 29 parishes, extending its pastoral reach and strengthening its mission of evangelization.
The establishment of St. Peter’s Anai Catholic Parish is more than just a spiritual milestone—it is a beacon of hope, unity, and community transformation.
As Christians celebrate this victory, their focus now shifts to building a strong, self-sustaining parish that will serve future generations.
Original Story: Lira Diocese News Agency……..