Abongodyang, Alebtong District – The Rt. Rev. Santus Lino Wanok, Bishop of Lira Diocese, has officially erected St. Joseph Catholic Parish Abongodyang in Alebtong District, marking a significant milestone in the spiritual and communal life of the area.
Presiding over the colorful ceremony, Bishop Wanok urged Christians to remain steadfast in their faith and avoid drifting away from Christ. He emphasized the need for strong spiritual grounding, particularly as the nation approaches the 2026 general elections.
“Let us choose leaders who will lead us well. Leaders with integrity and love for the people,” the bishop cautioned, speaking to a large congregation that included local leaders and political representatives.
Representing the Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Hon. Thomas Tayebwa, Hon. Samuel Okwir Odwee, MP for Moroto County, delivered a UGX 10 million donation to support the development of the new parish. The contribution, according to Okwir, is a gesture of commitment from the Deputy Speaker to the spiritual and infrastructural growth of the region.
Okwir, who is seeking re-election in 2026, also appealed to his constituents for continued support.
“I ask the people of Moroto County to trust me again to represent them in the 12th Parliament,” Okwir said.
Hon. Dorcas Acen, Woman MP for Alebtong District, gifted Bishop Wanok with a cow in appreciation for his continuous support to the people of Alebtong.
“Thank you, Bishop Wanok, for always having the people of Alebtong in your heart,” said Acen, acknowledging the bishop’s role in both spiritual and social development.
David Kennedy Odongo, Alebtong District Chairperson (LC5), also expressed gratitude to the bishop.
“We thank Bishop Wanok for his generosity, humility, and love for the people of Alebtong.
His presence here is a blessing to our community,” said Odongo.
The establishment of St. Joseph Catholic Parish Abongodyang is expected to enhance pastoral outreach, improve access to sacraments, and promote community cohesion in the growing Catholic population in the area.
