By Delux Emmy Alomu
NGORA
Bishop Rt Rev. Dr. Joseph Eciru Oliach of the Soroti Catholic Diocese has strongly reminded the faithful that candidates for the seminary must possess strong character and cautioned against admitting those with alcohol issues, as it could harm the community’s reputation.
The bishop expressed his concern regarding certain boys who have shown interest in priesthood but exhibit issues with alcohol.
Eciru emphasized the importance of sending only those free from alcohol issues to the seminary, warning that anyone struggling with drinking should think twice, as their participation could tarnish the community’s reputation.
“At the outset, it’s crucial to understand that our work does not accommodate drunkenness. If you’re considering sending boys to the seminary, ensure that they are free from alcohol-related problems. Those who wish to pursue seminary training but struggle with drinking should reconsider, as their presence could bring disgrace to our community,” he cautioned.
He urged the priests and Christians to avoid excessive drinking, highlighting that Catholics often suffer from the consequences while some continue to hold leadership roles in bars, which ultimately harms their health and leads to misguided beliefs about witchcraft.
“Many of us who identify as Catholic seem to struggle with the consequences of drinking. We’ve seen members acting as chairpersons or secretaries of bars, which leads to health problems like liver damage. It’s vital to break free from this cycle; claiming that it’s due to witchcraft only distracts us from the real issue at hand,” Eciru said.
This was during St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Parish-Koloin parish day celebrations held at St. Jude Thaddeus Catholic Church-Mukura in Ngora district on August 30th, 2026.
On this significant day, the bishop confirmed 500 individuals and officiated three weddings, during which he emphasized the importance of avoiding alcohol as part of their spiritual journey.
He also encouraged parents to come together in support of education, advocating for contributions to the development of schools instead of relying on the Regional District Commissioners to address high school development fees.
This was in response to the alumni from Mukura Primary School, who shared their ongoing support for the boarding section by providing accommodations for students.
The bishop reminded the attendees that voicing concerns to the RDCs, who might not have children in the local schools, was not always the most effective solution.
Furthermore, Bishop Eciru urged the congregation to complete the construction of St. Jude Catholic Church and the priests’ house before we can achieve parish status.
He reassured the Christians of Agolitom, who expressed a desire to join Nyero Catholic Parish, that they should remain patient while the diocese finalizes plans to establish a Catholic parish in Mukura.
Coinciding with the national cancer run, Prof. Francis Gervase Omaswa, Chancellor of Soroti University, took the stage to remind everyone of the importance of maintaining their health.
Omaswan advised people to nourish their bodies properly, stay hydrated, and rest when necessary.
He urged the community to steer clear of smoking and excessive alcohol use, emphasizing that good health starts at home and should only be addressed at health facilities when it falters.
“Cleanliness, a balanced diet, and avoiding sharing living spaces with animals were highlighted as crucial practices. Traditional foods, such as cowpea stew and cucumbers, were recommended over oily foods, and he reminded us to regularly check for blood pressure and other health concerns,” he said.
Prof. Omaswa, a proud alumna of Mukura Primary School, mentioned the collaborative efforts to build dormitories for students.
He expressed his enthusiasm for having the first bishop from our local community and how this development has allowed parishioners to engage with sermons in their native dialect.
Rev. Fr. John Eriau, the parish priest of St. Thomas Catholic Parish in Koloin, mentioned that the parish day was originally set to be celebrated on either July 3rd or August 26th this year.
However, due to unavoidable circumstances, including a tribute to the late Joseph Agelu, the celebration has been rescheduled to August 30th, 2026.
