Tag Archives: Bihop Wanok

By Fr. isaac Ojok, Communications Office, Lira Diocese

The pastoral visit of the Rt. Rev. Sanctus Lino Wanok, the Bishop of Lira diocese to St Joseph’s Catholic Parish Abongodyang, Alebtong district, held from 18 to 20 September 2026, focused on strengthening the faith of Christians and encouraging families to live Eucharistic-centred lives.

The three-day pastoral visit included meetings with parish leaders, the opening of two new Eucharistic Centres, and the celebration of the Sacrament of Confirmation for nearly 300 Christians.

 Meeting with Parish Leaders

The visit began on 18 September with a meeting between Church leaders and representatives of the Bishop. The meeting was conducted in a synodal manner, providing an opportunity for leaders to share and reflect on key issues affecting the parish community, particularly education and the Christian faith.

During the first two days of the visit, 18 and 19 September, the Bishop was represented by the Vicar General of Lira Diocese, Monsignor Valente Innocent Opio.

The discussions highlighted the importance of strengthening the faith of Christians while encouraging families to give priority to the education of their children.

 New Eucharistic Centre Opened at St Tobias Corner Apala 

On 19 September, a new Eucharistic Centre was opened at St Tobias Corner Apala. During the occasion, about 154 Christians received the Sacrament of Confirmation.

The establishment of the Eucharistic Centre is expected to bring pastoral services closer to Christians in the area and provide them with greater opportunities to participate in the sacramental life of the Church through the Eucharist.

 Eucharistic Centre Opened at St Philomena Akwete

On 20 September, Bishop Wanok opened another Eucharistic Centre at St Philomena, where 143 Christians were confirmed.

With the opening of the two new centres, Abongodyang Catholic Parish now has a total of three Eucharistic Centres, bringing pastoral and Eucharistic celebrations closer to communities within the parish.

The central theme of the pastoral visit was “Living a Eucharistic-Centred Life,” calling on Christians to deepen their relationship with Christ through the Eucharist and to translate their faith into daily family and community life.

 Christians Welcome the Bishop

According to the parish priest, Fr. Moses Owani, the Christians of Abongodyang warmly welcomed Bishop Sanctus Lino Wanok and expressed their gratitude for his commitment to bringing pastoral services closer to the faithful.

Fr. Owani commended Bishop Wanok for taking time to visit and interact with the faithful in Abongodyang, describing the visit as an important moment of encouragement and spiritual renewal for the parish community.

He said the Christians also appreciated the Bishop’s care and closeness to them, noting that his presence had strengthened their sense of belonging to the wider Church.

He further mentioned that the Bishop encouraged families to prioritise the education of their children, emphasizing the important role education plays in shaping the future of young people and society.

The parish priest also expressed appreciation to the Honourable Member of Parliament for supporting the parish choir in its efforts to acquire musical instruments for the glory of God.

 Preparing the Parish for Future Mission 

In his statement, the Bishop’s pastoral visit had helped prepare the Christians for the work ahead, particularly as the parish continues to expand its pastoral outreach through the establishment of Eucharistic Centres.

The opening of the two new Eucharistic Centres in different locations marks an important step in bringing the Church closer to the people and strengthening participation in the sacramental life of the parish.

Abongodyang Catholic Parish was canonically erected on 25 May 2025. According to the parish priest, Fr. Moses Owani, the parish comprises 40 chapels organised into four pastoral zones.

The pastoral visit concluded on 20 September 2026.

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