Category Archives: Religious

By Fr. Isaac Ojok, Communications Office, Lira Diocese

Lira, Uganda- December 27, 2025

The Bishop of Lira Diocese, Rt. Rev. Sanctus Lino Wanok has called on Christians to continue living out the spirit of mercy, compassion, and family unity even after the closure of the Jubilee Year of Mercy.

In a media statement issued ahead of the official closure of the Jubilee Holy Door on Sunday, December 28, 2025, at Uganda Martyrs’ Cathedral, Lira, Bishop Wanok emphasized that while the Holy Door may close, the mission it represents must continue in the lives of believers.

“The Holy Door was opened so that hearts could open towards God and towards one another,” the Bishop said, noting that the Jubilee Year was meant to inspire lasting conversion rather than a temporary religious moment.

Reflecting on the Feast of the Holy Family of Nazareth, which will be celebrated during the closure ceremony, Bishop Wanok pointed to the Gospel image of the Holy Family as one marked not by comfort but by movement, sacrifice, and trust in God. He highlighted Saint Joseph’s obedience and courage in protecting life amid uncertainty as a powerful lesson for families today.

“This reminds us that God walks with families under pressure, those facing poverty, insecurity, displacement, and fear,” he said.

The Bishop underscored that the Jubilee Year renewed the Church’s focus on the family as the “first school of holiness,” stressing that respect, care for parents, forgiveness, and love within the home are essential foundations for both Church and society.

Quoting Saint Paul, (Colosians 3:12-21), Bishop Wanok reminded Christians that true Christian identity is shown through virtues such as compassion, humility, patience, forgiveness, and love, which he described as the lasting fruits of the Holy Year.

“As we close the Holy Door, we open a new chapter,” he said. “We are sent out, not to remain behind doors, but to walk together as a synodal Church, protecting life, strengthening families, and witnessing mercy in our communities.”

Bishop Wanok concluded by urging believers to ensure that the “door of mercy” remains open in their hearts, homes, and across the nation, even after the Jubilee celebrations end.

The closure ceremony will take place on Sunday, December 28, 2025, at Uganda Martyrs’ Cathedral Lira and is expected to draw clergy, religious leaders, and faithful from across the diocese.

He ended his message by wishing the faithful a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year 2026.

End