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By Fr. Isaac Ojok, Communications Office, Lira Diocese
GULU — Priests and deacons of Lira Diocese have begun their annual spiritual retreat at Uganda Martyrs National Major Seminary, Alokolum, Gulu, in a week-long period dedicated to prayer, reflection and renewal of their priestly vocation.
The retreat began on Sunday, August 16, 2026, and will run until August 22 under the theme “Brother, I need you,” drawn from Matthew 11:28.
This year’s retreat is being facilitated by Rev. Fr. John Baptist Masayi, Director of St. Augustine Institute at the Uganda Catholic Secretariat.
Officially welcoming the participants, the Vicar General of Lira Diocese, Monsignor Innocent Valente Opio, encouraged the priests and deacons to make the retreat a genuine opportunity to encounter God through prayer, silence and personal reflection.
Monsignor Opio urged the participants to observe silence and avoid unnecessary conversations throughout the retreat, saying a recollected atmosphere is essential for fruitful prayer and reflection.
He acknowledged the many responsibilities priests carry in their daily ministry, including pastoral work in parishes, diocesan institutions and other apostolates.
The Vicar General said the retreat therefore provides an important opportunity for the clergy to temporarily step away from their demanding responsibilities and concentrate on renewing their relationship with God.
A time to step away and renew
For several years, Lira Diocese has held its annual priests’ retreat at Alokolum, outside the Diocese, as a way of providing the clergy with a serene environment away from their usual pastoral responsibilities.
According to Monsignor Opio, the setting allows the priests and deacons to devote themselves more fully to prayer, reflection and spiritual renewal without the distractions associated with their normal assignments.
On behalf of the Bishop of Lira Diocese, he also expressed appreciation to Fr. Masayi for accepting the invitation to lead this year’s retreat.
The annual retreat forms an important part of the spiritual life of the clergy, giving them time to examine their lives and ministry, deepen their relationship with God and renew their commitment to serving the Church.
Beyond personal spiritual growth, the retreat is also intended to strengthen the clergy for their continued service to the People of God.
Faithful urged to pray for the clergy
As the priests and deacons spend the week in prayer and reflection, the lay faithful of Lira Diocese have been encouraged to remember them in their prayers.
The faithful are particularly urged to pray that the retreat will bring the clergy renewed strength, wisdom, holiness and zeal as they continue their pastoral ministry.
A spiritually renewed priest, the Diocese notes, is better prepared to proclaim the Gospel, celebrate the Sacraments and accompany the faithful with joy, compassion and dedication.
The retreat will conclude on August 22, 2026, after which the priests and deacons will return to their respective pastoral assignments.
End