Soroti | The Bishop of Soroti Catholic Diocese, Rt. Rev. Dr. Joseph Eciru Oliach, has issued a stern warning to Soroti’s newly ordained six priests and one deacon.
The Bishop warned them to stay focused on their priestly vocation.
Last week, the Soroti Catholic Diocese ordained six deacons to the priesthood and one seminarian to the diaconate at Regina Caeli Cathedral in Soroti City, presided over by Bukedea Deanery.
The newly ordained priests are: Deacon Moses Okaki from St. Peter’s Parish, Olio, Serere district; Deacon Osuku James from St. Patrick’s Parish, Madera, Soroti City; and Deacon Eladu Curthbert from St. Michael’s Parish, Wera, Amuria district.
Others include Deacon Otim Pius of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Parish in Asamuk, Amuria district, Deacon Ajoket Marcel of St. Thomas the Apostle Parish in Koloin, Ngora district, Deacon Oyii Dominic of Holy Family Parish in Gweri, Soroti district, and Seminarian Egili Denis of St. Kizito’s Parish in Katine, Soroti district.
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In his homily, Bishop Eciru urged the priests to uphold their oath and warned against actions that could cause Christians to regret their ordination, emphasising that priesthood is a serious commitment rather than a casual endeavour.
The Bishop also advised priests to avoid romantic relationships and to reconsider their commitment to the priesthood in order to maintain the integrity of their service to Christ.
He challenged the priests to live their lives primarily for the glory of God and the salvation of souls.
He also emphasised the importance of financial prudence, advising them to avoid debt and unnecessary financial burdens that could reflect negatively on the Church.
The ordination ceremony was attended by dignitaries from the political, cultural, and religious spheres, with Bishop Eciru Oliach serving as the main celebrant alongside Bishop Dominic Eibu of Kotido Diocese.
Members of Parliament who attended the event contributed over shs50 million to the construction of Regina Caeli Cathedral, which is currently in the foundation phase.
Speaker of Parliament Annet Anita Among pledged only shs100 million and donated a public address system and stage equipment to help with pastoral work.
Vice President Jessica Alupo donated 3,000 chairs and pledged continued support for the church. She also pledged additional support, which she will deliver silently to the church.
President Museveni, through the Vice President, emphasised the importance of hard work and provided the church with shs20 million, promising additional financial assistance for cathedral construction.
In their messages, the priests reflected on the challenges and joys of their path to priesthood, emphasising the importance of spiritual, emotional, and communal support in their roles.
Deacon Egili described priesthood as a demanding but rewarding journey, while Priest Oyii shared his personal experiences of growth and challenges along the way.
Priest Ajoket shared his journey from altar server to priest, thanking his supporters and mentors.
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Priest Okaki recalled his early admiration for priests during Mass as a child, despite facing financial challenges and opposition from some relatives during his formation.
Priest Otim cited scripture and the sacrificial nature of priesthood, highlighting its divine calling.
Priest Eladu reflected on the memorable events that define his priestly vocation, while Priest Osuku marvelled at the transformation from seminarian to deacon and then priest, urging prayers from the community.
By Robert Edwomu
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