Bishop Sabino Calls on Christians to Embrace the Gift of Fortitude at the 108th Paimol Martyr's Celebration
The Bishop of Arua Diocese, Rt. Rev. Sabino Ocan Odoki, has called on Christians to embrace the
gift of fortitude, one of the gifts of the Holy Spirit, to remain steadfast in their faith, overcome fear and
persevere in doing good, drawing inspiration from the courage and faithfulness of Blessed Daudi Okello and Blessed Jildo Irwa.
Bishop Sabino made the call during the celebration of the 108th anniversary of the martyrdom of Blessed Daudi Okello
and Blessed Jildo Irwa at Paimol in Agago District - Uganda, where thousands of pilgrims gathered to honour the two young
catechists who gave their lives for their faith. Present were the Bishops from the GANAL province, guest from Germany, Nertherlands,
government leaders, cultural leaders and Pilgrims from all over the regions.
Reflecting on the theme of the gift of the Holy Spirit, the Bishop said fortitude empowers Christians to rise above their human limitations and
remain faithful to God even in moments of trials, persecution and uncertainty.
"The gift of fortitude helps us to overcome fear, trials and persecution. It gives us the courage to stand firm in our faith and continue doing
what is right, even when it becomes difficult," he emphasised.
He encouraged the faithful to emulate the martyrs, noting that their lives offer a powerful example of
commitment to God and perseverance in the face of danger.
"If God gives you a task that puts even your life in danger, you should not be afraid, because something greater
awaits you," the Bishop said, urging Christians never to abandon God or compromise their faith because of fear.
Bishop Sabino noted that Blessed Daudi Okello and Blessed Jildo Irwa had lived among the people of the region and
remained committed to their Christian mission despite the dangers they faced. Their witness, he said, continues
to inspire generations of Christians to remain faithful and persistent in their good works.
He expressed appreciation to the Archbishop Emeritus of Gulu, His Grace the Most Rev. John Baptist Odama, for
his efforts in visiting dioceses and promoting awareness of the lives and witness of the two martyrs.
The Bishop also thanked Fr. Joseph Okumu for his dedicated efforts in documenting the history of Blessed Daudi Okello
and Blessed Jildo Irwa, noting the importance of preserving their story for future generations.
Drawing from the Second Book of Maccabees, Bishop Sabino reflected on the account of a mother who encouraged her children
to remain faithful to God in the face of torture and death rather than betray their beliefs.
He said the biblical account challenges Christians to make faithfulness to God their ultimate goal,
encouraging them to support one another in sustaining good works and living virtuous lives.
He further referred to the teachings of St. Paul, urging Christians to avoid wrongdoing and remain committed
to what is good and pleasing to God. He particularly cautioned against corruption, dishonesty and other practices that undermine Christian values.
The Bishop also urged Christians to exercise vigilance in their use of modern technology, noting that although technological
advancements offer many opportunities, they can also expose users to harmful influences and temptations.
He cautioned the faithful against becoming excessively attached to electronic gadgets at the expense of their spiritual lives,
relationships and responsibilities.
Bishop Sabino encouraged Christians to use technology responsibly and to make choices guided by their faith and Christian values.
He called on families, communities and fellow believers to encourage one another to remain firm in their commitment to God.
He also appealed to married couples to be sources of encouragement and strength to one another, especially during difficult moments,
so that their relationships may reflect Christian love, faithfulness and perseverance.
The celebration attracted a large congregation of pilgrims, including bishops from the Ecclesiastical Province of Gulu (GANAL),
His Grace the Most Rev. Raphael P'mony Wokorach, the Archbishop of Gulu; His Grace the Most Rev. John Baptist Odama, Archbishop
Emeritus of Gulu; the Bishop of Nebbi; and other bishops.
Also present were clergy, religious sisters and brothers, leaders of apostolic movements, government officials, cultural leaders
and distinguished guests from Germany, Austria and the Netherlands.
The celebration drew significant participation from young people, children and pilgrims from across the country, reflecting the
growing devotion to Blessed Daudi Okello and Blessed Jildo Irwa.
Thousands of pilgrims travelled on foot, including approximately 1,000 pilgrims from Lira, while others came from several dioceses,
demonstrating the expanding reach of the annual pilgrimage.
Bishop Sabino expressed gratitude to all those who participated in the celebration, particularly the foot pilgrims, whose sacrifices
and determination reflected the spirit of perseverance embodied by the martyrs.
The Bishop thanked the Holy See for the trust placed in him through his appointment to the episcopacy, particularly Pope Benedict XVI,
who appointed him bishop. He expressed gratitude for the continued collaboration and support he has experienced throughout his episcopal
ministry and the successive pontificates.
He revealed that he had recently spent two weeks in Rome undertaking a renewal exercise, during which he met the Holy Father. During the visit,
he sought the Pope's blessings for his 20th episcopal anniversary, Arua Diocese, Uganda and refugees, and conveyed the Pope's blessings and goodwill
to the faithful.
Bishop Sabino also thanked the bishops of the GANAL Ecclesiastical Province and the bishops of Uganda for their continued support,
with particular appreciation for those who had accompanied him in his episcopal journey and ministry.
He extended his gratitude to the clergy of the Archdiocese of Gulu, Arua Diocese and Kotido Diocese, as well as religious sisters
and brothers, the laity and the Christians of Arua Diocese for their continued support and commitment to the Church.
The Bishop further acknowledged friends and well-wishers in Uganda and abroad, particularly those from Germany, and expressed gratitude
to his parents for their support throughout his life and vocation.
As the celebration reflected on the witness of Blessed Daudi Okello and Blessed Jildo Irwa, Bishop Sabino reminded the faithful that the
gift of fortitude is essential to Christian life because it strengthens believers to resist evil, face challenges courageously and remain
faithful to God.
He said the examples of Jesus Christ, the apostles, the saints and the martyrs demonstrate that genuine faith requires courage, perseverance and trust in God's grace.
The Bishop urged Christians to continue encouraging one another, sustain their good works and remain committed to lives of holiness, charity and service.
