Arua Diocese Celebrates World Kolping Society Day.
November 4, 2024 - Arua Diocese, Uganda
Arua Diocese celebrated the World Kolping Society Day, joining hands in prayer and reflection on the life and mission of Blessed Adolph Kolping.
The commemoration took place with a special Holy Mass led by the Rt. Rev. Sabino Ocan Odoki, Bishop of Arua Diocese. Bishop Sabino called on the faithful to embrace the Kolping Society's mission of positive change through economic and social transformation, urging the congregation to become active members who contribute to building a world rooted in justice, responsibility, and faith.
The Kolping Society, a Catholic social organization founded in 1850 by Blessed Adolph Kolping, is dedicated to fostering social justice, peace, and civil society. With over 400,000 members in more than 60 countries, the organization works to empower communities by providing education, promoting responsible living, and training skilled workers. In the West Nile region, which includes Nebbi, Arua, Yumbe, Moyo, Adjumani, Koboko, Maracha, Pakwach, and Zombo, over 41 Kolping Families have been established, with more than 1,264 members under the coordination of Mrs. Lillian Lee Azibazuyo.
In his homily, Bishop Sabino highlighted the invaluable role of gatherings like this in fostering awareness and solidarity. Reflecting on the Kolping Society's contributions, he recognized their efforts in youth education, skills development, community service, and support for disadvantaged groups. He also praised the organization's dedication to strengthening family structures, promoting fair labor practices, and fostering spiritual growth through prayer and community activities.
Looking ahead, Bishop Sabino announced that the month of November 2024 will be a special month for the diocese, with Cardinal-elect Fabio Baggio from the Vatican visiting the diocese for up to four days. The cardinal will spend time with refugees from South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo at the Bidibidi and Nyumanzi Refugee Settlements, before meeting with priests and religious brothers and sisters in Adjumani. Cardinal-elect Baggio, who currently serves as the Undersecretary for the Migrants and Refugees Section of the Vatican, has extensive experience in refugee ministry and has been recently elevated to cardinal by Pope Francis.
Bishop Sabino encouraged the faithful to prepare with joyful anticipation for Cardinal-elect Baggio's visit, seeing it as a divine blessing for the diocese. "Let us prepare to welcome Cardinal Baggio with open hearts and great joy, giving thanks to God for this blessing," he urged.
The Bishop described the Society as a "shining candle" in Arua Diocese, saying that transformative change can be achieved peacefully and responsibly through positive actions, as inspired by Adolph Kolping's vision.
He reminded society members that Kolping's legacy is one of faith and holistic care for both body and soul, saying, "As we work hard for our spiritual growth, we must also care for our well-being. In prosperity, let us remain close to God, who guides and blesses us."
