Bishop Odoki Marks 20 Years of Episcopal Service

What the report says

Catholic and political leaders gathered in Arua City to celebrate Bishop Sabino Odoki’s 20 years of episcopal service, according to Nile Post. The event took place at Sacred Heart Cathedral in Ediofe and brought together church leaders from different denominations, local government officials and other guests to recognize Odoki’s role in the Catholic Church and in community life in Northern Uganda.

Speakers at the ceremony praised the bishop for what they described as a unifying presence and for supporting development in the region. Gulu District LC5 Chairperson Justin Obol Simpleman said Odoki had played a meaningful part in his own life, while Arua City Mayor Lawrence Alionzi Dangote urged the Church to use its influence in tackling poverty and illiteracy. The celebrations also included blessings and greetings from Archbishop Tomasz Grysa, the Apostolic Nuncio to Uganda, who conveyed the Pope’s closeness to the country.

Odoki thanked those who attended and asked for continued support for the Church’s work, including a planned elders’ home in the Arua Diocese. President Yoweri Museveni was represented by Second Deputy Prime Minister Crispus Kiyonga, who delivered a congratulatory message and encouraged people in West Nile to pursue wealth creation through productive sectors. The ceremony also featured cultural performances, reflecting the broad local support around the anniversary. A general context note: episcopal anniversaries in the Catholic Church often serve as public milestones to honor a bishop’s pastoral and civic influence.