By KT Reporter
At least 668 Christians from more than 32 Catholic churches under St. Stephen Parish received the sacrament of confirmation during the celebration of the 10th anniversary of St. Stephen Catholic Parish Day in Katakwi Deanery, Soroti Catholic Diocese. St. Stephen Catholic Patron Saint’s Day is commemorated annually on December 26, marking 24 years since the parish’s establishment in 2001.
The celebrations at St. Stephen Catholic Church were marked by a solemn Holy Mass presided over by Rt. Rev. Dr. Bishop Eciru Joseph Oliach, the Ordinary of Soroti Catholic Diocese. During the Mass, the Bishop confirmed 668 Christians and urged them to remain steadfast in their faith by upholding strong Christian values.He emphasized discipline, forgiveness, mutual love, and respect for elders as key pillars of Christian life, and called upon believers to actively support the construction of the Regina Cheli Diocese.
Rev. Fr. Patrick Acedu, the Parish Priest of Usuk and Dinne Katakwi Parish, also encouraged Christians to revive support for bishops’ funding and to prioritize the development of the Regina Cheli Diocese.Stephen Eucot, a member of the St. Stephen Parish Council, praised Bishop Oliach for his committed leadership and dedication to strengthening the Church within the Soroti Catholic Diocese.
The Vice President of Uganda, Rtd Maj. Jessica Rose Alupo Epel, who was the chief guest at the celebrations, underscored the importance of family love and unity. She urged Christians to place church unity and development at the forefront of their priorities.
Alupo further advised Christians to nurture strong moral values within their communities, noting that adherence to biblical teachings alongside respect for the laws of the country is essential in preventing crime and promoting peaceful coexistence.
She also pledged a donation of about UGX 20 million towards the completion of St. Stephen Catholic Church and the ongoing construction works of the Regina Cheli Soroti Diocese.
Meanwhile, some of the newly confirmed Christians, including Emmanuel Ibwala, Jorem Ooyu, and Lillian Briggate Ameja, expressed joy at receiving the sacrament of confirmation. They said the milestone strengthened their commitment to the Christ-centered life and pledged to faithfully abide by Catholic teachings and commandments.
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