Lira | As Christians around the world observed Palm Sunday, the solemn yet joyful commemoration of Jesus Christ’s triumphant entry into Jerusalem, Lira Diocese celebrated with profound spiritual vigour, a vibrant display of faith, and a passionate call for moral renewal.
The Right Reverend Sanctus Lino Wanok, Bishop of Lira Diocese, led hundreds of Christians in a colorful and deeply symbolic procession from the old Akii Bua grounds to Lira Cathedral, signaling the official start of Holy Week.
Clad in red vestments, holding palm branches aloft and singing hymns of praise, the faithful marched through the city streets in a celebration that combined worship, community spirit, and cultural solidarity.
The atmosphere was filled with joyful songs and prayers as people from all walks of life, including religious leaders, schoolchildren, and lay Christians, came together in an incredible display of devotion.
During the mass at Lira Cathedral, Bishop Wanok delivered a powerful message about holiness, unity, and integrity.
He encouraged Christians to use Holy Week for deep reflection, spiritual renewal, and recommitment to a life based on love, humility, and righteousness.
“We must not be christians by name but by action. The triumph of Jesus should inspire us to triumph over sin and temptation. Let us open our hearts to God and allow His grace to transform our lives,” the Bishop preached.
The Bishop also addressed civil servants and public leaders, speaking out strongly against corruption and abuse of public office, which he described as moral cancers in society.
He urged government officials, administrators, and community leaders to lead with integrity, accountability, and fear of God.
“Corruption is evil and must be fought with all our strength. Those in positions of leadership must lead by example, showing honesty, transparency, and respect for the people they serve,” he stated emphatically.
His message was especially relevant given the current political and socio economic climate, in which many Ugandans are concerned about rising levels of corruption and inequality as the country approaches the 2026 general elections.
In order to promote peace and cohesion in the Lango sub-region, Bishop Wanok contacted cultural leaders and urged them to use their influence to promote unity within the Lango chiefdom.
His message was timely, given the region’s ongoing internal divisions and leadership transitions within traditional structures.
“Our culture should be a tool for unity, not division. Let us work together to preserve our heritage and promote peace among our people. Only through unity can we achieve meaningful development and lasting social harmony,” Bishop Wanok emphasized.
He called on both cultural and religious institutions to play a central role in peacebuilding, dialogue, and community development.
Bishop Wanok addressed his fellow priests and church leaders, making a heartfelt plea for recommitment to pastoral responsibilities. He reminded clergy that they are spiritual shepherds responsible for leading their flocks with compassion, humility, and unwavering dedication.
“Let us be living examples of faith, love, and service not just during Holy Week, but every day. Our people need us to be strong, faithful, and present in their lives,” he said.
The Bishop’s call was received with solemn nods and visible emotion from many present, a sign of the deep spiritual bond shared within the Uganda Martyrs Cathedral Lira Diocese.
Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero, Minister of Health and Lira City Woman Member of Parliament, joined the Palm Sunday celebration.
Dr. Aceng delivered a complementary message to the congregation, urging parents and guardians to support the government’s recently introduced malaria vaccine, the R21/Matrix-M malaria vaccine, which is a critical development in the country’s ongoing fight against one of its deadliest diseases.
Dr. Aceng addressed the congregation, emphasizing the importance of immunizing children aged five to eighteen months, who are the most vulnerable to severe malaria complications.
“The malaria vaccine is a gift to our children. It adds an extra layer of protection alongside sleeping under treated mosquito nets and early testing. Let’s not fear it, let’s embrace it,” she urged.
Dr. Aceng reiterated that, while the vaccine does not completely eliminate malaria, it does significantly reduce the severity and mortality rate associated with the disease. She urged parents to prioritize their children’s health and to believe scientific advances that have undergone rigorous testing.
In a political shift, Dr. Aceng echoed Bishop Wanok’s call for peace and moral leadership, urging Ugandans to approach the upcoming 2026 general elections with love and tolerance.
Drawing parallels between Jesus’ love for humanity and the role of leaders in society, she warned against divisive rhetoric, tribalism, and hate speech.
“We are heading into a politically charged season, let us remember that politics should not divide us. It should unite us around shared visions for our families and our country. Let us speak with love, act with love, and vote with love,” she noted.
Her remarks came at a critical juncture, as political tensions brew throughout the country.
Dr. Aceng emphasized the importance of constructive politics centered on people’s well-being by grounding her message in both spiritual and civic responsibilities.
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