210 Confirmed at St. John Paul II Oriajini Parish as Bishop Sabino Calls for Peace and Discernment
A total of 210 young boys and girls received the Sacrament
of Confirmation during a pastoral visit and Eucharistic celebration at St. John Paul
II Oriajini Parish, presided over by Rt.Rev.Sabino Ocan Odoki, Bishop of the Arua Diocese.
ORIAJINI, Arua Diocese -
In his homily, Bishop Sabino shared the message of peace from the recently concluded
Peace Week, urging Christians and the faithful of Oriajini to become messengers of peace
in their families, schools, and workplaces. He praised the strong representation of the
diocese during the peace celebrations, noting the unity shown by Christians, religious,
and clergy.
The Bishop emphasized that love is the foundation of peace, describing it as God's
greatest gift. Quoting the Gospel parable of the sower from St. Luke, he called on
the faithful to make their hearts "good soil" where the Word of God can grow and bear
fruit.
Addressing the newly confirmed candidates, Bishop Sabino described the day as a turning
point in their lives, calling on them to live as true witnesses of Christ and to go forth
like the Apostles after receiving the Holy Spirit to proclaim the Good News.
He encouraged the young people to discern their vocation early, make wise choices for
their future, and plant a tree as a living reminder of the day they received the gifts
of the Holy Spirit. He noted that discovering one's God-given vocation brings joy,
fulfillment, and peace.
"My advice to the young is to seek the vocation God is calling you to, because when you
choose rightly, you will work with love and never grow tired," the Bishop said.
He also appealed to parents to continue supporting their children's education and growth,
stressing that proper guidance opens greater opportunities for them in today's fast-changing
world. Bishop Sabino concluded by urging all Christians to allow God's Word to transform their
hearts so they may radiate Christ's love, faith, hope, and peace in their communities.
