Lira, Uganda – The Diocese of Lira in Northern Uganda witnessed a profound moment of grace and unity on December 29, 2024, as Rt. Rev. Sanctus Lino Wanok, Bishop of Lira Diocese, inaugurated the Jubilee Year 2025.
The highlight of the event was the opening of the Holy Door at Uganda Martyrs Cathedral Lira, a powerful act symbolizing an invitation to God’s mercy and love.
The event, celebrated under the theme “Pilgrims of Hope,” drew thousands of faithful from across the region, including clergy, religious men and women, and lay Christians. It marked the beginning of a year-long journey of spiritual renewal and reconciliation.
The celebration began at St. Daniel Comboni Eucharistic Center in Adyel with the reading of the Jubilee Bull, a proclamation marking the official start of the holy year. From there, a 2-kilometer procession made its way to the Cathedral, with participants singing, praying and reflecting.
Upon arrival, Bishop Wanok opened the Holy Door, symbolizing entry into God’s infinite mercy. The act invited all who passed through to experience a spiritual transformation and commit to a life of grace and renewal.
In his homily, Bishop Wanok emphasized that the Jubilee Year is a divine gift, offering a chance for the faithful to reconcile, forgive and transform their lives.
“This is a sacred moment for us to heal from the effects of sin and to draw closer to God,” the Bishop said.
He encouraged Christians to use the year to mend broken relationships, rebuild families and foster unity in their communities.
Reflecting on the Feast of the Holy Family, the Bishop urged families to model their lives after Joseph, Mary and Jesus of Nazareth. He highlighted the family as a school of love, forgiveness, and faith, calling on parents to take responsibility for nurturing their children spiritually and emotionally.
He cautioned against distractions like excessive use of technology, urging parents to prioritize meaningful interactions with their families.
“The family is where Christian values are nurtured and passed on,” he said.
The Bishop called on Christians to embrace the Jubilee Year with a spirit of action, urging them to participate in sacraments, engage in acts of charity and commit to regular prayer.
He also appealed to priests to work collaboratively in fostering unity and spiritual growth among their parishioners.
“This is a time for all of us to walk together in faith, building a stronger and more united Church,” he said.
The Jubilee Year 2025, running until December 28, 2025, offers a sacred opportunity for the faithful to reflect, renew and rebuild.
Through acts of prayer, reconciliation, and service, Christians in Lira Diocese are called to live out the theme of “Pilgrims of Hope” and shine as lights of God’s mercy in their communities.
The Holy Door stands open – a powerful reminder of God’s endless love and an invitation to walk together toward a brighter, more faithful future.
Original Story: Lira Diocese News Agency
