By KT Reporter
The Bishop of Soroti Catholic Diocese, Rt. Rev. Dr. Joseph Eciru has called for moral renewal among young people, urging them to shun ungodly practices and strengthen their faith.
Bishop Eciru made the remarks while presiding over the closing Mass of the Soroti Catholic Diocese Annual Youth Conference 2025, held at Shalom Youth Centre in Soroti, which attracted hundreds of youths from across the Teso sub-region.
In his homily, the Bishop emphasized the critical role young people play in shaping the future of both the Church and the nation, expressing concern over what he described as growing moral decay.
“In betting and gambling, they are active; in marriage, only a few succeed, while many prefer a hit-and-run lifestyle,” Bishop Eciru said, lamenting the increasing engagement of youths in destructive habits rather than meaningful commitments.
He further criticized what he described as widespread apathy among young people, noting that many prefer criticizing others instead of contributing positively to society.
“This generation has gone astray; they are seated, indifferent, and critical—judgmental and ever negative,” he observed.
The Bishop warned that inactivity often fuels negativity, with those unwilling to act quick to condemn those who take initiative.
On marriage, Bishop Eciru stressed its sanctity and expressed concern over the growing tendency for young people to delay or avoid commitment. He reminded the youth that faithfulness and dedication attract blessings.
“A church marriage is a blessing and should not be treated lightly,” he said.
He also cautioned against the rise in betting and gambling, warning that such practices divert young people from their God-given purpose.
The Bishop urged them to become torchbearers of faith and defenders of Christian values in what he described as a morally shaken world. “Stand out and lift Christ’s royal banner,” he urged, calling for integrity and purpose-driven living.
The conference, according to the Bishop, was intended to inspire transformation, and he challenged participants to return to their communities ready to effect positive change. “Do not go back to being like children in marketplaces—unstable and easily swayed,” he cautioned.
He encouraged the youth to embrace accountability and moral uprightness, urging them to become witnesses of Christ even when it comes at a personal cost. Quoting the Psalms, he warned against following the counsel of the wicked and failing to adhere to God’s commands.
“Go back with hearts on fire and feet on the move to set the world ablaze with divine love. Say no to the devil but yes to God,” Bishop Eciru said.
Echoing the Bishop’s message, State Minister for Fisheries and Serere District Woman MP, Hellen Adoa Abeku, warned young people against lifestyles that disconnect them from God, noting that such choices often lead to hardship and broken relationships.
She singled out alcoholism as a major contributor to crime and domestic violence, urging the youth to avoid it.
Adoa also cautioned against idling in trading centres during early morning hours, saying it exposes young people to negative influences and peer pressure. Instead, she encouraged them to invest their time in productive activities and personal development.
Adoa urged the youth to desist from involvement in political violence, warning that they often suffer the consequences. “Your future is more valuable than any politician’s promise or token,” she said.
She called on young people to participate peacefully and responsibly in the political process while remaining grounded in Christian values.
The Annual Youth Conference has become a key platform for spiritual and moral formation in the Soroti Catholic Diocese, supporting efforts to nurture a principled, responsible, and faith-driven generation.
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