July/August 2015 Published by the Communications Department and printed by the Diocese Printing Services, P.O. Box 454, Arua No. 138 Austrian pilgrims captivate Christians in Arua Diocese

By Sr. Grace Candiru, MSMMC

unday 12th, July 2015 wit- nessed a vibrant celebration S of the Holy Mass at Ediofe Cathedral jointly animated by an all- Boys’ Choir from Austria and St Daniel Comboni of Ediofe cathedral. The holy mass which was led by Ab- bot Thomas Renner of Altenburg Monastery and co-celebrated by Bishop Sabino Ocan Odoki of Arua Diocese and several other priests attracted hundreds of Christians as the two choirs took turns in leading the hymns for the Mass. The end of each hymn by the visiting choir was met with ululations and hand claps from the congregation. And when it came to the time of the “Our Father”, the Austrian choir shocked the mammoth congrega- tion, by intoning the hymn in the L-R: Bishop Sabino Ocan Odoki, a member of the Boys’ Choir and Abbot Thomas Renner local Lögbara dialect, which they during a luncheon hosted in honour of the Austrian pilgrims at the Bishop’s Residence. composed. As the choir sung the hymn, many in and his monks lived. According to Abbot Thomas, the choir, their patron/matron and par- the congregation could not contain To date, the monks are still involved ents on annual basis, make pilgrim- themselves and not surprisingly, the in pastoral care of eight parishes. end of the hymn was met with a thun- Some of the monks are teachers while age to various countries and, “this has led us to your beautiful country, derous hand clap and ululations from most of them work in agriculture, for- .” “It was our relationship the congregation. estry, tourism and the Boys’ Choirs is with your Bishop and your diocese very important to the monastery. The Austrian team consisting of a that made us to choose your beautiful Boys’ Choir, their patron/matron and “Our father Saint Benedict founded country,” he said in an interview ear- parents came as pilgrims at the invi- our religious order and as such his lier on. tation of Bishop Sabino. The invita- rule is the basis of our life,” he told The Abbot who is the spiritual leader tion followed Bishop Sabino’s visit to Radio Pacis. He said they try to con- of the all Boys’ Choir joined the mon- Altenburg Monastery where Abbot nect prayer and work because his (St. Thomas is bishop in May 2014. Benedict’s) motto is ‘Ora et labore’, astery in 1993 after studying theology in Vienna, his home town. He took which means man needs both prayer During the homily Abbot Thomas his religious vows in Altenburg in and work and, both must be in a good explained that Austria is a country 1997, and two years later was or- relationship. with long Christian tradition and that dained a priest. His Episcopal ordina- the monasteries are a sign of this. His Meanwhile, the all Boys’ Choir which tion as Abbot was on 17th January monastery at Altenburg is one of the began in 1961 are a service of the 2014. oldest monasteries established in monasteries and they help to animate Turning to the readings of the 15th 1144 and it is here that St Benedict mass every second week of the month. Arua Diocese Bulletin 1 July/August 2015

Sunday of the year, Abbot Thomas to be witnesses and that every bap- da in general but Arua Diocese in par- said all of us are called to be witnesses tised Christian is a witness. ticular. He informed the congregation of our Lord Jesus Christ. “Even as the that the pilgrims would be proceeding “All of us are to witness to God’s love gospel reading of today calls us to be and to understand this we only have to Indriani pilgrimage centre for the witness, witness is found in human to understand what we receive at bap- monthly pilgrimage. love – it is not like getting a certificate tism,” he said. “All of us are God’s The Bishop who had earlier on been at the end of studies,” he said. children because we received God’s co-opted as member of the choir said He said in our daily lives we all know grace at baptism,” he added. the Boys’ Choir was an inspiration how important being a witness is. In worth emulating. He said being a Further more, the Austrian prelate situations of accidents or crimes, he went on to explain that witnessing is group like that helps the children to said a witness helps the court to come keep discipline, adding that life with- about life in the spirit and to pro- up with judgment. claim his gospel. “It is a life long out discipline is a wasted life. He explained that Christian witness- ministry,” he said. The Bishop said he was particularly ing is not about eloquence but rather proud and inspired by the matron and He said in the Gospel Mark tells of about saying what the Lord wants you how Jesus sent out his disciples to be patron of the group for supporting to say even at the risk of your life. He witnesses – to heal the sick and drive them in all ways. said prophet Amos was not a learnt out demons. He said Jesus’ sending A parishioner who spoke on behalf of person but one who listened to God’s witnesses in pairs is meant for them the Christians thanked the parents message and proclaimed it. to support one another in the mission who accompanied their children on “Bearing witness to God does not de- especially in difficult times. the pilgrimage. “Your devotion to- pend on education or status – God wards the upbringing of your children But he explained that the witnesses in chooses the lowly not the eloquent or is highly appreciated. It is an example the gospels were not allowed to take intelligent,” he said. Just like Moses, we can emulate that when our chil- anything on their journey. he was not eloquent but he appointed dren join the choir or any church as- Aaron as his speaker. And Jeremiah “It is not about personal property or sociation, it is good for us to partici- too told God he was a child and did intelligence but relying on God’s pate in the activities of that associa- not know how to speak but still God grace,” adding that they were to bear tion,” he said. witness with their own lives. “A wit- went ahead to use him. Earlier on, the Austrian pilgrims ness is not only to care for him or her- “God calls you as a bishop, priest, cat- numbering over forty people made a self but for others,” he said. echist ... not to do it in your own courtesy call at Arua Diocese Media strength but through his inspiration,” Bishop Sabino thanked Abbot Thom- Centre on Saturday 11th, where they he emphasised. He said God wants us as for bringing the pilgrims to Ugan- recorded songs and interviews. The Abbot said it was a pleasure for his Over 200 Christians confirmed in Oriajini team to visit the Media Centre which receives some support from Austria. total of 219 Christians in St nancies and all sorts of immorality. “It is a great pleasure that the “Magi” the A John Paul II – Oriajini Catholic “If you are not educated, you will not Three Kings which is very important for Parish have received the sacrament of become the future doctor, priest, us in Austria supports this media centre confirmation in a space of less than nurse, sister engineer, teacher..., you and especially the children’s programmes one month. would like to be,” he warned. in this area,” he said. The administration of the sacrament The Vicar advised the candidates Bishop Sabino later on hosted a which ran from 14th June to 4th July against over dependence on their luncheon in their honour at his resi- 2014 took place in the parish’s four parents saying they are now young dence to which departmental staffs, zones namely Ulua, Yole, Ewadri and adults who should work hard for self priests and religious communities Oriajini. And as part of their commit- sustenance. around were invited. Also in attend- ment as confirmed Christians, candi- ance were the Chief of the Ayivu peo- Msgr. Asega also noted with concern dates contributed over one million ple and the Resident District Com- the rate at which school going age shillings towards the renovation of missioner of Arua, Peter Debele, children have taken to mairungi the cathedral in Ediofe. among others. chewing, tobacco and opium smok- Msgr. Primus Asega, the Vicar Gen- ing, drinking alcohol and displaying Abbot Thomas in his remarks pointed eral of Arua Diocese who presided of public nuisance without shame. He out that they had heard negative sto- the holy mass for the sacrament re- warned the youth against drugs and ries about Africa but that from what mained consistent in his message to substance abuse saying their genera- they had seen and experienced, it is the candidates and the congregation tion is doomed if they do not desist quite different. “You have beautiful in attendance. “You are now being from the practice. country and people,” he affirmed. confirmed into a young adult Chris- In the confirmation ceremonies that Further on, the Abbot with great tian life; to join the army of Jesus attracted huge congregations, nurse- pleasure acknowledged that all the Christ in fighting evil, to be witnesses ry and primary pupils used the occa- help that comes from Austria is need- to Christ by being morally upright sion to present poems on family rela- ed and it is used properly. He said and of service to the Church in vari- tionships, a pointer to the domestic since meeting Bishop Sabino in Aus- ous capacities,” he said. violence that is fast destroying fami- tria, the friendship has continued to He called on the candidates to take lies. ■ grow. ■ their educational needs seriously and By Andama Raphael, John Dibaba has contributed to this article avoid early marriages, teenage preg- Communications Secretary.

July/August 2015 2 Arua Diocese Bulletin

Pope Francis speaks out on the environment in LAUDATO SI'

ope Francis has issued his first solo encyclical, world and not ‘steal’ resources from future generations. “Laudato Si, mi Signore” - meaning “Praise be to But it is important to note that Laudato Si is not only ad- P you, my Lord,” on Care for our common home. dressed to the Catholics alone, no. Environmental deterio- The Pope’s encyclical which focuses on the environment ration is a global problem and as such the pope is address- and climate change was inspired by the beautiful canticle ing every person living on this planet. “In this Encyclical, I of St Francis of Assisi and it reminds us of the care for our would like to enter into dialogue with all people about our common home, mother earth. In that canticle St Francis common home,” the Holy Father noted. whose name Pope Francis took on, likened mother earth Recalling Blessed Pope Paul VI, who in 1971 made an ad- to a sister with whom we share our common home that dress to United Nations’ Food and Agricultural Organisa- governs and sustains us. tion, warned of “a tragic consequence” of unchecked hu- The encyclical reminds us of the harm we have inflicted man activity: “Due to an ill-considered exploitation of na- on our common home by our irresponsible use and abuse ture, humanity runs the risk of destroying it and becoming of the goods with which God has endowed mother earth. in turn a victim of this degradation,” Pope Paul VI said at “We have come to see ourselves as her lords and masters, the time. entitled to plunder her at will,” adding that the violence And he went on to call for a radical change in the conduct present in our hearts, wounded by sin, is also reflected in of humanity, arguing that unless scientific advances, tech- the symptoms of sickness evident in the soil, in the water, nical abilities and economic growth are accompanied by in the air and in all forms of life. authentic social and moral progress, they will definitively Although there have been a number of previous state- turn against man. ments by bishops and popes on the environment and Meanwhile, Saint John Paul II re-echoed the same envi- faith, Pope Francis’ encyclical is the first social encyclical ronmental concern in his first encyclical, Redemptor in the Catholic Church to address the care for the environ- Hominis. In it he warned that “human beings seem to see ment and environmental justice in a direct and specific no other meaning in their natural environment than what way. serves for immediate use and consumption.” The encyclical in a way compliments what the Catechism On the basis of these and other warnings by popes and of the Catholic Church says and it lays upon us a responsi- Continued to page 5 bility of good stewardship over creation – to care for our

Arua Diocese Bulletin 3 July/August 2015

Parents, first spiritual formators of children

he national executive secretary of taking the hand of the child to trace the ment. the Lay Apostolate Commission, sign of the cross on their foreheads. And as laid out by the Catholic Church, Fr Stephen Candia has said par- T Additionally, he said parents could also he said a sponsor must be appointed by ents are the first spiritual formators of help direct their children to follow the the candidate, parent, caretaker/ their children. catechesis for the other sacraments of guardian or the parish priest/minister “Parents have the responsibility of in- initiation – namely, Confirmation and of the sacrament. And he said it is im- structing their children in matters of Holy Communion, as these sacraments portant that the sponsor must not be faith. They are the first teachers of cat- lay the foundation for Christian life. He less than 16 years unless stipulated by echesis for their children,” he said said through Baptism one is born a new the ordinary of the diocese. and that with the sacrament of Confir- The priest said this during a workshop Additionally, he said this person should mation we are strengthened in our faith, he facilitated with a team from the na- be a Catholic who must have completed while in the sacrament of the Holy Eu- tional Catholic Secretariat. The work- the sacraments of Christian initiation charist we receive the food of eternal shop which drew participants from the namely, Baptism, Holy Communion and life. dioceses of and Arua was attend- Confirmation. ed by diocesan lay apostolate coordina- Further on, the priest explained that Also, this person must not be under tors, youth chaplains, youth leaders and these sacraments are protected through canonical penalty. The Church attaches heads of the laity from the two dioceses. the sponsors (‘sadini’) and witnesses the canonical penalty of excommunica- It was also attended by directors of cat- who represent the Church. “They tion to the crime against human life and echetical centres and catechists. (witnesses and sponsors) protect the formal cooperation in an abortion con- public character of the sacraments,” the The week-long workshop was based on stitutes a grave offense. Executive Lay Apostolate Secretary who the themes: “Education of the lay faith- hails from Arua Diocese affirmed. Thus, “a person who procures a com- ful on their vocation and mission in the pleted abortion incurs excommunica- Church and in the world,” and Who can be a sponsor? tion by the very commission of the of- “Marriage and the Family.” As to who can be a sponsor (‘sadini’), Fr fense, and is subject to the conditions Spiritual formation of children Stephen explained that a sponsor is the provided by Canon Law,” Catechism of the Catholic Church (2272). Taking the partici- pants through the var- As such, a person with this kind ious topics that fell of background should not act under the two themes as a sponsor. such as spiritual for- Role of the sponsor mation of children and the dignity of mar- Ideally one of the key roles of riage, among others, the sponsor is to present the Fr Stephen explained candidate – one who is receiv- that the core message ing any of the sacraments of of every catechesis is initiation together with the par- that it focuses on the ents/guardians for the recep- person of Jesus. tion of the sacrament. He said catechesis for Then the sponsor accompanies infants/children helps the candidate on his or her to nurture that initial journey of faith before, during gift of faith. But he and after by helping the candi- was quick to explain date to fulfil the duties inherent that it is on the ac- to the sacrament. And accord- count of the faith of ing to Fr Stephen, these duties the parents that chil- The sacrament of Baptism is considered a Sacrament of Initiation. The could be accompanied by fre- dren are brought to other two Sacraments of Initiation are Eucharist and Confirmation. quent encounters with the candi- faith. And where there date/parents to strengthen rela- are no signs of faith on the part of the male or female adult companion who tionships as well as help the candidate parents, he said baptism can be de- plays a complimentary role to the bio- to grow in faith hope and charity. ferred (postponed). logical parents/guardians in the physi- The priest however clarified that priests By taking on the spiritual formation of cal and spiritual growth to maturity of and religious are not allowed to be their children, he said parents first and the candidate receiving a sacrament. sponsors as these category of people foremost, do this through their life wit- He said the sponsor does not take the won’t be able to journey with the candi- ness. “They encourage their children to whole role but simply accompanies the date full time. But he explained that follow their (parents’) good example. candidate in his or her journey of faith. there is no canonical provision which And according to Fr Stephen, one such But most importantly, this person bars them from being sponsors. ■ example could be praying together and (sponsor) must not be a biological par- By Sr Grace Candiru, MSMMC teaching their children how to pray – ent to the candidate receiving the sacra-

July/August 2015 4 Arua Diocese Bulletin

dence in technological solutions. And in reference to the statement of the Southern African bishops, he said everyone’s talents and involvement in needed to redress the damage caused by human abuse of God’s creation. “All of us can cooperate as instru- ments of God for the care of crea- tion,” the pope said, in the Encyclical which he said had now been added as part of the Church’s teaching. Inspired by the Pope’s encyclical Laudato Si, CAFOD, UK based Catholic Aid Agency is calling on the British Prime Minister, David Cameron to show leadership na- tionally and internationally so that agreements on tackling cli- Christians from Archdiocese celebrate as they lifted trophy for this year's tree planting mate change and poverty are fair campaign of Gulu Ecclesiastical Province. Environmental protection is one of the key compo- and ambitious. The agency points nents of the Province’s annual Peace Week celebration. out that love and care for creation are an essential dimension of faith which Continued from page 3 to replace consumption with sacrifice, helps Catholics to address, reflect and bishops on the environment, Pope greed with generosity, wastefulness respond to the environmental challenge Francis in Laudato Si' speaks openly with a spirit of sharing, an asceticism our world is facing. about the devastating effects of cli- which “entails learning to give, and In the encyclical which focuses on mate change on people and the plan- not simply to give up. broader issues of human development et. He warned that climate change is “It is a way of loving, of moving grad- and stewardship of God’s creation, real and must therefore be urgently ually away from what I want to what the Pope urges society to move away tackled. God’s world needs. It is liberation from the myth of perennial progress The Holy Father made a particular from fear, greed and compulsion,” at the expense of the earth’s re- reference to a statement by Ecumeni- Patriarch Bartholomew is quoted as sources. cal Patriarch Bartholomew regarding having said. He warned that development which Aware of the factors fails to respect the Earth is a false econ- that lead to environ- omy, and calls for an open dialogue in mental degradation, society about how best to tackle the the Holy Father made global issues we face. a concerted appeal to On the question of pollution and cli- bring the whole hu- mate change, Pope Francis warned man family together that some forms of pollution are part to seek a sustainable of people’s daily experience. He said and integral develop- exposure to atmospheric pollutants ment. produces a broad spectrum of health He acknowledged the hazard especially for the poor, thus efforts of those who leading to premature deaths. He sin- are already doing gled out high levels of smoke from something towards fuels used in cooking or heating as a environmental pro- major cause of deaths. tection. He was par- Besides this, he said there is also pol- ticularly appreciative lution which affects everyone such as Ghanaian Cardinal Peter Turkson, President of the Pontifical of those who tirelessly Council for Justice and Peace at the launch of Laudato Si' exhaust and industrial fumes, sub- seek to resolve the stances which contribute to the acidi- his concern about environmental tragic effects of envi- fication of soil and water, fertilizers, damage in which he stated thus: ronmental degradation on the lives of insecticides, fungicides, herbicides “inasmuch as we all generate small the poorest. and agro toxins in general. ecological damage”, we are called to “I want to recognize, encourage and Due to the hundreds of millions of non- acknowledge “our contribution, thank all those striving in countless biodegradable, highly toxic and radioac- smaller or greater, to the disfigure- ways to guarantee the protection of tive wastes from homes and businesses, ment and destruction of creation.” the home which we share,” he said. the Pope says the earth, our home is The Patriarch is drawing our atten- He however noted with concern some beginning to look more and more like tion to ethical and spiritual roots of obstructionist attitudes which range an immense pile of filth. environmental problems, which not from denial of the problem to indif- only require technological solutions ference, resignation or blind confi- Continued to page 8 but a change in humanity. He asks us Arua Diocese Bulletin 5 July/August 2015

RADIO PACIS AND ARUA DIOCESE MEDIA CENTRE HISTORICAL HIGHLIGHTS 1986 Uganda Government liberalizes radio airwaves; FM licenses granted to private organizations. 1989 July First Arua Diocesan Synod calls for the establishment of an FM radio station. 1994 November Second Arua Diocesan Synod calls for the establishment of an FM radio station. 1997 Voice of Life 100.9 FM begins broadcasting. 1998 April Radio 87.8 FM begins broadcasting. 1999 November Third Arua Diocesan Synod calls for the establishment of an FM radio station. Fr. Tonino Pasolini MCCJ appointed by bishop to be Diocesan Communications Secretary with mandate to 2001 November establish an FM radio station for the diocese. Lay missionary Ms. Sherry Meyer appointed Assistant Diocesan Communications Secretary with the same mandate. 2002 2002 Arua One 88.7 FM begins broadcasting. 2002 January Bishop Drandua allocates diocesan land for the Media Centre and radio 2002 February Construction of fencing around allocated land. 2002 March Bishop Drandua names the radio “Radio Pacis” (a Latin word meaning peace). 2002 Funding sought from Catholic donor agencies abroad. 2002 Consultations with stakeholders about the goals and objectives of a diocesan radio. 2002 June Construction begins. 2003 2003 Funding sought from Catholic donor agencies abroad. 2003 Consultations with stakeholders about the goals and objectives of a diocesan radio. 2003 December First training course for Parish Communications Secretaries. 2004 Two Horizont3000 development workers arrive to conduct two years’ of training in radio journalism and 2004 January technical aspects. 2004 March First radio journalists recruited for training. 2004 April Construction of essential buildings completed. 2004 May-August Training course for the recruited radio journalists. Two Horizont3000 development workers arrive to conduct two years’ of training in administration and 2004 July technical aspects. 2004 September UCC grants Radio Pacis the license to broadcast on 90.9 FM. 2004 October 25 First official day of broadcasting; 19 hours a day, seven days a week. 2004 November 26 Official launch of Radio Pacis. 2005 An independent "Listener Survey" sponsored by ILO (International Labour Organization – a UN organization) 2005 June says Radio Pacis has the highest number of listeners in West Nile. 2005 September Target Group Index in Uganda says that out of 115 radio stations Radio Pacis is in 6th place at national level. 2005 November 7 Dr. Kizza Besigye, a presidential candidate, came to Radio Pacis for a 2-hour talk show. 2005 December Radio Pacis increased its broadcasting to 24 hours a day, seven days a week. 2005 December 6 President of Uganda, Yoweri Museveni came to Radio Pacis for a 2-hour talk show. 2006 2006 February Explosion destroys the battery back-up system in the power scheme that supports the radio. 2006 May Board of Governors first meeting. 2006 October The Candidate-Mentor program was introduced as a way to attract and train potential radio journalists. 2006 December Radio Pacis enters BBC competition for Best New Radio Station in East Africa. 2007 2007 February Radio Pacis selected by BBC as Best New Radio Station in East Africa. 2007 March Second generator installed. 2007 April Chief News Editor, Acidri Ernest, wins scholarship to USA for journalism study tour. 2007 May Radio Pacis selected by BBC as Best New Radio Station in all of Africa. 2007 September UCC grants Radio Pacis the license to broadcast on 94.5 FM. 2008 2008 January The studio of 94.5 FM furnished and equipped. New transmitter installed.

July/August 2015 6 Arua Diocese Bulletin

Radio Pacis 90.9 FM broadcasts 24/7 with anchor languages Lögbara and Kakwa plus English. 2008 February Radio Pacis 94.5 FM broadcasts 24/7 with anchor languages Alur and Ma’di plus English. 2008 June Feasibility study begins for relay station in Gulu. 2008 July Installation of the first solar panels in the photovoltaic system to reduce costs of power generation. 2009 Moyo Vicariate Bureau initiated. A small studio furnished and equipped within Moyo Multipurpose Centre to 2009 February assist the region. In a country-wide competition, the BBC World Service Trust selected six radios in Uganda for a capacity- 2009 February building project in reporting local governance issues and human rights. Radio Pacis was selected as one of the six. 2009 March Radio Pacis won a national award for creativity in children’s broadcasting. UMDF selects three radio journalists from Radio Pacis for training in “Promoting Peace Journalism in Uganda 2009 July through Radio”, In partnership with IWPR (Institute for War and Peace Reporting) the radio embarked on a project in “justice 2009 September and human rights journalism.” In addition to training, the radio received a lap top computer and a field recorder. Station Manager, Sherry Meyer, selected by UMDF and KAS to attend Africa Media Leadership Conference in 2009 October Accra, Ghana. Training sessions held for civic leaders, marketing agents, and communication secretaries as part of the BBC 2009 November World Service Trust partnership. First outside broadcasting event successfully held in Ovujo, Maracha County as part of the BBC World Service 2009 December Trust partnership. 2010 Feasibility studies for Gulu frequency continued, consultations made, funding sought and license applications 2010 March were made. In a partnership with an East Africa NGO called PANOS the Radio Pacis embarked on a two-year “Rural 2010 April Debate” project which included training, financial support and equipment. BBC World Service Trust gives Radio Pacis “Most Supportive Management Award.” In presenting the award, 2010 April the good relation between staff and management, the teamwork of all managers and excellent organization of the station was noted. BBC World Service Trust names Radio Pacis Journalist Adrapi Gabriel “Most Improved Reporter” and rewards 2010 April him with a laptop computer. 2010 April BBC World Service Trust delivers radio equipment worth more than €20,000. 2010 October UCC grants Radio Pacis the license to broadcast on 101.4 FM. 2011 The Toy Festival was initiated for children. From several areas of the listening audience, children displayed 2011 January their hand-crafted toys and interacted with radio personalities. The creativity of children was both applauded Radio Pacis broadcasts on three frequencies: 90.9, 94.5 and 101.4. All three frequencies broadcast 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The three frequencies are distinguished by their languages—the vernacular languages of Northern Uganda. Broadcasting from Arua, 90.9 has the anchor languages of Lögbara, Kakwa 2011 February and English. Broadcasting from Arua with a studio link-up in Moyo, 94.5 has the anchor languages of Alur, Ma’di and English. Broadcasting from Gulu during prime time and relaying programming from 94.5 during other hours, 101.4 has the anchor languages of Luo and English. Trips to Murchison Falls National Park were organized for the staff of Arua Diocese Media Centre. The 2011 May excursions included a chance to see wildlife and enjoy the beauty of God’s creation. The days of recreation encouraged better relationships and team building. Radio Pacis sports journalist, Ogua Patrick, twice won sports knowledge contests, netting him UGX 20 million 2011 June as the top prize and two all-expenses-paid trips to South Africa. Radio Pacis journalist, Ojok Emmanuel, won the first prize in the category of Jury’s Special Award in the Radio 2011 July for Peacebuilding Africa Awards 2011. Ojok received an all-expenses-paid trip to Kigali, Rwanda to receive his award. He collected €500 and a digital recorder. Population and Development Annual Media Awards sponsored by the Population Secretariat (POPSEC) of the 2011 October Uganda Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development names Radio Pacis journalist Adrapi Gabriel the winner in the Radio-Upcountry category and gives him a laptop computer as the prize.

To be continued in the next issue.

Arua Diocese Bulletin 7 July/August 2015

Continued from page 5 And all these, according to Pope Fran- cis is caused by the “throw away cul- ture”. He blamed the industrial sys- tem which has not developed the ca- pacity to absorb and reuse waste and by-products. Although Laudato Si' is addressed to humanity as a whole, it particularly helps Catholics to address, reflect and respond to the environmental chal- lenges our world is facing today. It helps us to answer questions like how do we love our neighbours in need by sharing wealth and at the same time love our earth by promot- ing sustainability? And how do we promote economic growth and re- A heavily polluted source of water: spect the common good? How can you and I play our part in protecting the Environment, our Common Home? And just as it is with all Church teach- be bold, to speak about major issues ings, Catholics have a particular re- faith into action by living simply, and to achieve a new level of rele- sponsibility to engage with and reflect praying for “our world” and lobbying vance in people’s eyes.” upon the message of the encyclical and politicians to tackle climate change. find ways of applying it to our lives. The agency also proposes to create a In response to the Archbishop’s call, study guide and other helpful re- Chicago residents regardless of their Already, faith communities in differ- source to encourage prayer and re- religious affiliation pledged to collect ent parts of the world are putting flection on some of the themes of the rainfall, conserve tap water, recycle their faith into action by doing some- encyclical. their cans and bottles and switch off thing in response to the Holy Father’s the lights when they leave a room. call to action to mitigate the devastat- And in the US after the Vatican’s pub- The people’s response is seen as an ing impact of environmental damage lication of the encyclical, the United unusually tangible, immediate and to mother earth. States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) came up with a discussion ecumenical response to the pope’s The challenge therefore is for each guide to help faith communities dis- encyclical. individual to reflect on his or her ac- cuss about it. Earlier on in the months leading up to tions to see what we can do both as the document’s anticipated release, individuals and as communities to This discussion guide is aimed at the Chicago Archdiocese pulled to- avert the environmental degradation helping small groups explore and dia- gether a team of ecologists, scholars caused by human actions. logue with this important document. The guide includes materials for pray- and theologians to help amplify the Such actions could include tree plant- er, reflection and discussion, as well pope's message. Parishes in the Arch- ing, using the available water sparing- as ideas to help Catholics respond to diocese will participate in energy au- ly, switching off lights when not nec- Pope Francis’ message. The discus- dits and water conservation programs essary and using energy saving ovens sion section of the guide includes and work to curb carbon emissions. among others. quotes and discussion questions on a And in Arua Diocese, the Director of In the UK, a Catholic Aid Agency variety of themes highlighted in Laud- Arua Diocese Media Centre, Fr CAFOD reports that their supporters ato Si’. Tonino Pasolini sought to avail copies are responding in positive ways to the On the day the Vatican published the of the encyclical to all the manage- Pope Francis’ plea to protect the plan- Encyclical (18th June 2015) Archbish- ment team and the Radio staff. A copy et. Their supporters are putting their op Blase Cupich of Chicago Archdio- of the same document was also given cese ad- to each member of the Board of Gov- dressed a ernors of the institution. press con- For the radio staff, Fr Tonino created f e r e n c e time within the weekly Friday radio calling the meeting during which he takes the publication staff through the Encyclical. This is of the en- aimed at giving them a better under- cyclical “a standing of the document and the ra- watershed dio staffs in return are encouraged to moment for sensitise the public about the encycli- the church, cal in their programmes. for humani- ty and for Additionally, Fr Tonino who is also the planet,” the Diocesan Communications Direc- adding that tor also availed copies of the Encycli- “It is a time cal to all the priests and communities of religious serving in Arua Diocese. ■ The key ideas of the Encyclical are creation, care and justice, and the for the failure of humanity to provide either justice or care for creation. church to

July/August 2015 8 Arua Diocese Bulletin

Construction Christians support construction of works to resume multipurpose hall in Parish

at Okuvu Catholic he plan ject was expected to commence in Chapel to con- July this year once a committee to T struct a oversee the progress of the project is multi-purpose instituted. hristians of Okuvu chapel under Parish have started massive hall in Koboko He calls upon other Christians and C preparations to resume construc- Catholic Parish people of good will to contribute gen- tion works of the new church building. h a s b e e n erously towards the success of the boosted with project. Atiku David the project chairman of the donation of chapel revealed that the church building The first fundraising for the construc- that was left at the roofing level was con- By Acema Ronald, 8 0 0 , 0 0 0 / = tion of this multi-purpose hall was structed in 2006 and that it has already Asst. Comm. Secretary Ugandan shil- consumed over 11 million Ugandan shil- lings from ded- launched in October 2014 with the lings. But since then the work came to a icated Christians in the Parish. view of helping people to easily access stand still due to lack of funds. facilities especially while organizing The chairperson for Finance, Plan- religious and government functions Atiku however explained that through ning and Development in the Parish, like retreats, seminars and workshops mobilisation of funds from the local Jino Dramaza says the support brings among others. Christians and other well-wishers, they the amount of money so far raised to were able to acquire 120 iron sheets for around 15 million shillings. President Yoweri Museveni has prom- roofing the house. He said they are now ised to support the project with 200 left with the punches of the roofing tim- Out of this amount, 700,000/= was bags of cement and 200 iron sheets. bers that are expected to cost over 4mil- donated by Hon. Babadiri Margaret, lion shillings. the Woman member of Parliament for The Finance, Planning and Develop- ment committee have diversified the The Christians are also currently organis- , while 100,000/= ing for a grand fundraising drive that will was contributed by Ms. Grace Atayi, source of income for the project as take place in early August so as to raise both Christians in the parish. contribution of 500/= per each Chris- tian for buying bricks, fundraising some funds to restart the work. Mr. Dramaza explained that, with the and donations among others. ■ “When the work of this church building available funds the work on this pro- started in 2006 we were scared and left with little hope because of the financial status of the local Christians. But thank God, some devoted Christians together Tara Sub-parish renovates main with people of good will offered skilled, semi-skilled and unskilled labour to build church building the church,” said Atiku. enovation works have Clever in Switzerland. Fr Atiku further explained that they have started on the main Jino asked Christians to been grappling with several challenges church building in continue supporting the such as inadequate funds, the low num- R Tara sub-parish. The works project both physically and ber of Christians, aging of some key Christians, and failure by the youth to are part of a five year devel- financially as a manifesta- identify with the church, among others. opment plan that the parish tion of faith. pastoral council approved “Despite the donor sup- Catechist Anguyi Kiloton, the chapel cat- for implementation three port we received for this echist called upon the local Christians to years ago. draw closure to God and put their faith work, our Christians into action by supporting such church Mr. Andrew Etole the parish need to continue sup- projects generously because the church is project chairman said the fo- By Robert Atiku, porting this project be- theirs, as Christians. cus now includes building ex- Communication cause these funds are He also encouraged all the Christians tension wings, provision of Secretary not even sufficient to holding various leadership positions seating facilities, cementing finish all that we want within the church to do their work dili- the floor, plastering the outside wall and to do on this church house. We gently because it is God-given and that fixing new doors, among others. know that doing good work shows all they do should be for the purpose of our faith,” Fr. Jino said. giving glory to God. “The renovation of this church build- ing is the centre of our spiritual work According to the parish development The Christians are currently attending because it helps to accommodate and plan, the next project after renovation Sunday prayers and other church pro- bring the Christians together to praise of the church will be construction of grammes in the former grass thatched God. A good number of our Christians the presbytery (priests’ house). Last house with dilapidated roof which incon- are also providing physical labour year the parish did plastering of the veniences them during rainy weather. here at the site.” Mr. Etole said. Some inside wall, fixed water tanks, con- Okuvu chapel was curved from Adunimamva Christians have already started sup- nected solar system and painted the chapel in 1999 and since then the Christian porting the project by providing food roof of the Parish church. population has grown to two hundred and items and gathering local materials. twenty. ■ Tara Sub-parish has a Christian popu- Fr Jino Adroni the parish priest said lation of 23,000 Christians drawn By Emmanuel Ezati, Communications Secretary. part of the funds used in this project from 20 chapels and seven zones. ■ is a donation from Sisters of St. Peter

Arua Diocese Bulletin 9 July/August 2015

Eulogy of Fr Ettore Pedrini, 1921 – 2015

parish of , West Nile and en- gaged in ministry. In 2009 he was def- initely assigned to the Italian prov- ince, first in Arco and then, in care, in Milan, where he died on 21 March, 2015. Fr. Antonio Solcia, who lived with him for more than 30 years in and Ombaci, re- members him as “a great man and a holy missionary, a person of strong character, not afraid to defend his opinion if he On the left: Fr Pedrini Ettore , a Comboni Missionary who passed away in Italy early this year spent many thought it was years of his life as principal at Lodonga PTC. Next to him Fr Tonino Pasolini of Radio Pacis. Courtesy photo. right. He was a man of great intelli- r. Ettore Pedrini was born in Back in Uganda, for a year he was a gence; he loved to read and care- Trento on 16 October, 1921. teacher at the TTC Lira and in fully chose books. Equipped with a F He entered the novitiate of charge of the parish. From 1958 to great memory, he self-taught vari- the Comboni Missionaries at Vene- 1981 he was Principal of the T.T.C. ous languages: English, German, gono, made his first vows in 1940 of Lodonga (St. John Bosco TTC), French and Swahili. and two years later his perpetual in West Nile: “As a teacher and He had a great love for the people vows. He attended his scholasticate president of the Institute of Sci- that were with him; he treasured in Verona, Rebbio and again in Ve- ence of Lodonga,” wrote Fr. Ettore, their freedom of thought and ad- rona, where he was ordained priest “I had the privilege of helping in mired each person’s talents. One of on 7 July, 1946. After the ordina- the formation of a fine group of his hobbies, a bit out of necessity, tion, he spent two years in Trent as Christian teachers (more than 400) was the mechanics. He had a well- vocation promoter. who still love God and practice equipped garage and kept himself He was then assigned to Uganda their faith and who are like the up-to-date by reading even books and sent to London to study Eng- good seed scattered in cities and on mechanics. remote villages, wherever there is a lish. In Uganda he worked for In the field of education he has nearly sixty years in different par- school. Our teachers have helped us more than anybody else in pro- been a true pioneer, a giant. All the ishes: in the mission of Ngetta in teachers who studied under him as Lira in 1950 as parish priest; then claiming the word of God, and I think we should try to help them, principal remember him with great as chaplain and teacher at the affection and esteem.” Senior Secondary School because they consider us as their from 1951-1953, where several of friends.” In the funeral homily, Fr. Lino his pupils became government offi- Then, for 22 years, he worked at Spezia, besides emphasizing his cials. Ediofe in Arua in various commit- work in teaching, to which Fr. Et- tore devoted much of his life and of From 1954 to 1956 he went back to ments: as superior, treasurer as well as engaging in pastoral ministry. his missionary energies, also add- England where he attended the ed: “Fr. Ettore had great confi- Goldsmiths College in London, and He returned to Italy due to health dence in the young people he met obtained his BA University degree reasons, staying mainly at Arco. and encouraged them to combine and the MEC (Ministry of Educa- Then, in February 2007, he was their Christian formation with the tion Certificate) that was necessary again assigned to Uganda. Fr. Et- culture and commitments they to teach or direct an institute of tore was already 87 years of age were assuming in society and in higher learning in Uganda. but very thrilled to return to the the parish.” ■

July/August 2015 10 Arua Diocese Bulletin

Retired teacher dies in Teachers called to invest in long term road accident projects

ay 21, 2015 was a atholic teachers in Koboko Parish very sad day for C have been encouraged to invest in M the Christians of long term projects like tree planting Koboko Catholic for future income generation. parish and the entire The call was made by Fr Samuel Ori- community following onji, curate of Ocodri during a day of news of the sudden death recollection for teachers in Koboko of Mathias Alphonse parish. And according to Fr Orionji, Odiri. the income would help the teachers Mathias met his death meet some basic needs such as paying following a motor acci- school fees for their children, among dent along Arua – others. road. He was knocked by The recollection was in preparation a speeding vehicle on for the Catholic teacher’s day celebra- Wednesday evening near tions which took place on 13th June Koboko Public Secondary 2015. This day has been celebrated school in Koboko town annually since 2008 and Catholic Council. He was rushed to Teachers Association of Koboko Par- Koboko Health Centre VI ish is the only strong association of in a critical condition but teachers in Arua Diocese with a num- he passed away on Thurs- ber of activities going on. day morning. Based on the theme: “Teacher, the The late Mathias Alphonse Odiri Close to one thousand model of society,” from the Gospel of mourners abandoned their private businesses and offices to pay their respects Mark 10:35-45, the preacher encour- to their beloved son at Koboko Parish Centre. Mathias was a retired secondary aged the teachers to engage in some teacher. The accident occurred as the late returned from visiting a relative in daily income generating activities to Mengo Ward in Koboko town council. meet their daily needs. The parish priest, Fr Saviour Nzia who Born in 1948 in Oraba parish, Koboko district, late Mathias went to Kaya and is also patron of the Catholic teachers Goya primary schools from 1956-1959 and 1960-1961 respectively. For two association said teachers have learnt a years he was at Blessed St Charles Lwanga Junior Secondary school before lot of theory and that time had come enrolling at St. Joseph’s College for his “O”– Level from 1964 to1967. for them to transform the theory in to He later joined Makerere College school for his “A”-level and went on to quali- practice. He called on the teachers to fy as a grade five secondary school teacher from the then National Teachers’ engage in simple activities such as College Kyambogo in 1973. horticulture to meet their family de- mands. After qualifying as a teacher, late Mathias taught in a number of secondary schools, among them Ndejje, Madera and Arua Public Secondary schools. He Some teachers gave testimonies of the then went into exile in 1981 because of the political instability that followed benefits they have received from being the overthrow of Amin’s government. members of the association. Some of the benefits included paying school While in exile he taught in Torit Technical School and in the secondary schools fees for their children, building per- of Loka, Yei Day and Lutaya until 1989 when he returned from exile. In Ugan- manent houses, setting up small scale da he resumed teaching at St Charles Lwanga College - Koboko and in Nyan- businesses and spiritual nourishment, gilia Secondary School where he retired. among others. After retiring from the teaching profession, Mathias took on other responsibil- Meanwhile, centre coordinating tutor ities both in the church and Koboko district local government. He was the of Nyarilo, Mr Pascal Afedra advised leader of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal of Koboko Cath- teachers to go for upgrading, say- olic Parish. And at the district, he was associate assessor of ing “Uganda of today is becoming Koboko district Education department and a member of competitive in terms of educa- public accounts committee of the local government, among tion.” “In the near future it will others. only be graduates who will be con- sidered for teaching position,” Late Mathias died aged 67 years and he is survived by a wid- Afedra warned. ow and nine orphans. The vice chairperson of Catholic Meanwhile, recent reports show that road accident related Teachers Association, Buga Biajo deaths are on increase on Arua – Oraba road following the thanked Fr Orionji for his won- tarmacking of Arua – Oraba highway. Within the month of derful facilitation of the recollec- May alone, three people, among them, the late Mathias Al- tion and he called upon the teach- phonse Odiri have lost their lives in road accidents due to By Ayuga Salmon, ers to take up the lessons learnt so reckless riding of motorcycles and vehicle driving. ■ Communication Secretary as to do what is best for them. ■

Arua Diocese Bulletin 11 July/August 2015

Cathedral Renovation update

Finally! The most important part of the Cathedral Renovation has been completed! Presently the workers are plastering the walls of the interior of the Cathedral. Windows are under construction. New doors are planned. A new floor will be constructed with tiles. We still need your contribution. Let us finish the renovation of OUR HOME!

These two photos were taken from the tower of the antennas of Radio Pacis. Above: The old roof was removed and the bell tower under renovation (January 20, 2015). Below: The roof is completely new and the bell tower repaired and renovated (July 31, 2015)

July/August 2015 12 Arua Diocese Bulletin