BISHOP WANOK CONDEMNS CORRUPTION AND JOB SALES, AS THE DIOCESE CELEBRATE PATRONS, UGANDA MARTYRS

PATRON CELEBRATION INTRO In Lira Diocese, home to Uganda Martyrs Cathedral, the only cathedral in the region dedicated under the patronage of the Uganda Martyrs, Christians gathered in large numbers to commemorate their patrons’ day, the Uganda Martyrs Day 2026. Details Follow…SOT Ambience The Uganda Martyrs Cathedral, the seat of Lira Diocese, holds special significance in the region's devotion to the martyrs. Established as the cathedral when the Diocese of Lira was created in 1968, the church was dedicated to the Uganda Martyrs, who were chosen as the patrons of the diocese. For decades, Lira Diocese has contributed one of the largest contingents of foot pilgrims to the annual Martyrs Day celebrations at Namugongo. However, this year, faithful gathered closer to home, turning the cathedral into a vibrant center of worship and remembrance. Despite the absence of the traditional pilgrimage, the celebrations retained their unique identity, complete with the energetic drumming and cultural expressions that have become synonymous with the diocesan faithful. Ambience Presiding over the celebrations was the Bishop of Lira Diocese, Rt. Rev. Sanctus Lino Wanok. It was his first time leading Martyrs Day Mass within the diocese on this occasion. Bite… Rt. Rev. Sanctus Lino Wanok In his homily, Bishop Wanok praised the unwavering faith of the young martyrs, urging young people to reflect on their lives and emulate the courage, integrity, and commitment demonstrated by the martyrs. The bishop also used the occasion to address issues affecting the nation, particularly corruption, which he described as a growing threat to Uganda's development. He expressed concern over reports of job sales and other corrupt practices, questioning the silence of those charged with ensuring accountability. Bite… Rt. Rev. Sanctus Lino Wanok The bishop further urged Christians to pray for the country's leaders, asking that the spirit of the Uganda Martyrs guide them in serving with honesty, humility, and dedication. Filed & Run 3rd June, 2026