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The Soroti Catholic Diocese has strengthened its pastoral leadership after ordaining five priests and five deacons, with Bishop Rt Rev. Dr Joseph Eciru Oliach urging the newly ordained clergy to uphold integrity, prayer and responsible leadership in serving the faithful.
The ordination ceremony, held on July 11, 2026, at St Andrews Catholic Parish, Anyara in Kalaki district, was conducted under the theme “Feed My Flock” from John 21:17.
Presiding over the Mass, Bishop Eciru told the newly ordained priests and deacons that the future of the Church depends on the quality of leadership they provide to the people entrusted to their care.
“If the Church dies, it is because of the poor leadership of those leading the flock. You must be men of prayer, men of integrity, and shepherds who feed the flock entrusted to you,” Bishop Eciru said.
He added that priests and deacons must lead by example and remain close to the communities they serve.
The five priests ordained were Rev. Fr. Isaac Ogwang of the Missionaries of Africa from St Thomas the Apostle Parish, Koloin, who has been posted to serve in Zambia; Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Omoding of St Paul’s Catholic Parish, Kumi; Rev. Fr. Casian Omongot of St Pancras Catholic Parish, Toroma; Rev. Fr. Marvin Otukene of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Parish, Asamuk; and Rev. Fr. Bosco Oumen of Holy Cross Parish, Ongutoi.
The five deacons ordained were Deacon Simon Peter Aliu from Wera Catholic Parish; Deacon Emmanuel Ariku from Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Parish, Kidetok; Deacon Samuel Ebitu from St Kizito Catholic Parish, Katine; Deacon Raymond Obote from St Kizito Catholic Parish, Katine; and Deacon Deogratius Ewange from Holy Family Catholic Parish, Gweri.

The ceremony was attended by his eminence Cardinal Arigo Melio from Rome, who called on Christians to remain firm in their faith and keep prayer at the centre of their lives.
“Continue sticking to your faith and always continue praying to the Father. When we pray together, the Church becomes stronger,” he said.
Amongin calls for support to clergy
Also present was Kaberamaido Woman Member of Parliament Jane Francis Amongin, who urged Christians to support priests and deacons as they carry out their responsibilities in the community.
“Our priests and deacons work day and night for us. Let us support them materially and spiritually so that they can carry out their mission effectively,” she said.
The Mass was also attended by Rt. Rev. Dominic Eibu, Bishop of Kotido Diocese.