Glowing tributes as Sr Mary Victoria Athieno is laid to rest

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The Benedictine Sisters of Perpetual Adoration are in mourning following the death of Sr Mary Victoria Athieno, a long-serving nun known for her unwavering faith, dedication, and compassionate spirit.

Athieno succumbed to cancer on Wednesday (October 29), at Mbale Regional Referral Hospital in Mbale city, leaving behind a legacy of service and inspiration.

She was 69.

Her death came exactly a week after that of Bishop Charles Martin Wamika of Jinja Diocese.

Athieno succumbed to cancer on Wednesday (October 29), at Mbale Regional Referral Hospital in Mbale city, leaving behind a legacy of service and inspiration. (Photo by George Ofwono)

The news sent an outpouring of grief across the wider religious community, as well as Athieno's family and the wider Tororo Archdiocese.

Her elder brother, Godian Obbo, spoke of her extraordinary journey and the profound influence she had on her family.

"The family lives in God's ways. I am sure the determination she had for the service of God, we now have two priests and a deacon from the family because of her inspiration."

He reflected on the late sister's pivotal decision to join the monastery, a move that defied traditional family expectations at the time.

Obbo described her as a person whose life was full of love, unity, and unwavering encouragement, even in her final days.

Gabriel Katandi, a close acquaintance, remembered Athieno's profound impact.

"Sister was very precise, down to earth with lots of humility and presence. She would always make us feel the presence of Mother Mary."

Athieno was born on May 4, 1956, to Phillip Owino and Modesta Alowo of Bere village, Merikit sub-county, Tororo. She dedicated her life to the Church on October 9, 1977, as she embarked on a path of faith and service that would shape the lives of many.

Mary Margdaline Birungi, Mother Prioress of the Benedictine Sisters Tororo Community, described the late as a mentor, a role model, and a woman of unwavering integrity.

"We are deeply saddened by her death," she said, emphasising Atieno's dedication to her work and her commitment to truth and justice. 

"Even during her illness, sister could say she has no time for sickness, portraying her love for life and her desire to see things accomplished".

The depth of Athieno's influence extended beyond her immediate community.

Kwar Adhola, Stephen Moses Owor, the cultural leader of Teing Adhola cultural institution, described her as "a brilliant daughter of our soil, a councillor and a guardian to many."

According to Dr Anthony Okoth, a medical superintendent at St Anthony Hospital, who presented the medical report, Atieno was battling advanced-stage cancer of the rectum.

In response to the loss, Archbishop Emmanuel Obbo of Tororo Archdiocese offered words of comfort and encouragement.

He urged the faithful to draw inspiration from Athieno’s life, encouraging them to commit themselves fully to God's kingdom, carrying forward her legacy of faith and service.