Lira, Uganda | Catechists across Lira Diocese have been called upon to rekindle the life of Small Christian Communities and to journey together with all the faithful in the spirit of Synodality, as the Church emphasizes communion, participation, and mission.
The appeal was made by the Bishop of Lira Diocese, Rt. Rev. Sanctus Lino Wanok, during the recent Diocesan Day of Prayer for Departed Pastoral Agents.
The annual event brings together catechists, clergy, and the faithful to honour those who dedicated their lives to God and the Church.
Bishop Wanok reminded catechists that the Church is inherently Synodal, a community where all members walk together in faith, leaving no one behind.
He underscored that Christian life begins in the family and urged catechists to encourage couples, starting at the chapel level, to receive the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony.
He emphasized the importance of participation in the life of the Church, noting that baptism calls all Christians to evangelize, teach the Word of God to both the young and old, and guide believers toward the sacraments that unite the faithful.
Addressing Christians from Dokolo Parish who had come to pass through the Door of Mercy, Bishop Wanok encouraged them to listen to God’s voice rather than their own and urged catechists to return to their communities to teach the faithful how to live in the spirit of Synodality.
During the celebration, Rev. Deacon Isaac welcomed the faithful from Dokolo Parish, explaining that the Catholic Church exists in three parts, the Pilgrim Church on earth, the Church in Purgatory, and the Victorious Church in heaven.
He encouraged prayers for souls in Purgatory while highlighting that the righteous are safely in God’s hands.
In his remarks, Vicar General Monsignor Innocent Valente Opio commended the Bishop for celebrating the Mass and lauded the Dokolo team for their large turnout at the Door of Mercy.
Drawing a parallel between catechists and infantry soldiers on the frontlines, he urged them to remain nonpartisan during the election period and to set exemplary standards in all their work.
The day began with catechists from Lira Diocese’s six deaneries gathering for prayers and reflections under the spirit of Synodality.
They later convened for a plenary session, sharing insights and passing resolutions aimed at strengthening pastoral work in the Diocese.
The event concluded with a renewed commitment from catechists to deepen their role as pastoral agents, working hand in hand with the clergy to nurture faith, strengthen Christian families, and sustain the spirit of communion within their communities.
# Lira Diocese News Agency