Lira, Uganda | The Catholic Diocese of Lira, on Thursday, 4 September 2025, witnessed the ordination of two priests and ten deacons at the Ordination Grounds in Lira City, marking a significant milestone for the church.
The newly ordained priests are Rev. Fr. Ray Atula and Rev. Fr. George O. Ochieng, while the ten deacons include Ambrose Adupa, Brian Obbo, Jimmy Dila, Ceasor Opio, Emmanuel Okello, Isaac Opio, Samson Odongo, Dicken Opoo, Lawrence Ojok, and David Onyango.
Bishop Sanctus Lino Wanok described the ordinations as a testament to spiritual growth and formation.
He expressed gratitude to the families of the ordinands for their sacrifices and said the new priests and deacons must serve with humility, compassion, and unwavering faith, even amidst modern challenges.
He noted that the ordinands had undergone thorough spiritual and academic formation and urged them to remain steadfast in their mission to serve God and the Church.
The event also featured remarks from Lango Paramount Chief (Won Nyaci) His Royal Highness Eng. Dr. Moses Michael Odongo Okune, who highlighted rising domestic violence, alcoholism, and family disputes in Lango.
He indicated that such issues are contributing to an increasing number of street children.
He encouraged the newly ordained priests and deacons to actively visit homes affected by domestic strife and provide guidance and counselling through the gospel.
He also advised families to take advantage of government programs such as the Parish Development Model (PDM), Youth Livelihood Programme, EMYOOGA, and GROW, among others, to improve their livelihoods.
Odongo Okune further called for unity among cultural leaders and requested the Bishop’s intervention in resolving minor disputes, stressing that collaboration is essential for the development of Lango culture.
Innocent Omongo, Chairperson of the Central Organising Committee, reminded the congregation that serving God requires personal sacrifice and a heart for humanity.
He encouraged the clergy to let their service reflect the love and teachings of Christ.
Msgr. Fr. Valente Innocent Opio, Vicar General of Lira Diocese, highlighted the difficulties faced by students at Aboke Minor Seminary, particularly severe food shortages.
He conveyed Bishop Wanok’s appeal for every chapel under the diocese to contribute a basin of maize, a basin of beans, and UGX 200,000 to support the seminary starting next month, emphasizing the importance of caring for those in training to serve the Church.
Hundreds of worshippers, families, cultural leaders, and dignitaries attended the ceremony, which not only marked a spiritual milestone but also served as a reminder of the Church’s role in addressing social and cultural challenges in Lango.
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