By Emmanuel Egwang
The Rt. Rev. Kosea Odongo, Bishop of Soroti Anglican Diocese, has called upon Christians to uphold purity, respect and mutual submission in marriage, emphasizing that these virtues are key to building strong families that mirror God’s love and discipline in society.
The bishop made this passionate appeal during his pastoral visit to All Saints Church of Uganda, Ajonyi in Katine Parish, where he confirmed several pupils and presided over the wedding of some residents.
Addressing the congregation, Bishop Odongo urged married couples to “submit to each other and avoid the dirt that spoils marriage,” noting that a family grounded in respect, faith and love stands firm in the face of challenges.
He explained that the strength of a marriage does not depend on wealth, status or family background but on the moral and spiritual foundation shared between partners.
“A good family is not built by riches or position,” he said. “It is built on values, mutual understanding, and the fear of God.”
Bishop Odongo emphasized the importance of cooperation between husbands and wives in all areas of family life, from planning and setting goals to raising children.
He said that when couples work together in unity, they create an environment where children can grow into responsible, God-fearing individuals who contribute positively to the community.
The bishop further challenged parents to take their responsibilities seriously, particularly in nurturing and guiding their children.
He cautioned against allowing children to be influenced by negative peer groups, which often lead them into destructive behaviors.
“Build a family that everyone in the society should admire,” Bishop Odongo said. “It’s not about how many children you have, but how you raise them, how you nurture them in the right path and in the ways of God.”
He encouraged parents to take full advantage of the educational opportunities available in their communities, describing education as a powerful tool for personal and moral development.
“Take them to school,” he urged. “A child who is educated becomes a blessing not only to the family but to the entire community. Education helps them understand the world better and live with integrity.”
Bishop Odongo also warned that children who are not guided on moral and social values often grow up with poor manners that weaken community harmony. He reminded parents that the best way to teach children is through personal example.
“If you want your children to be kind, loving and prayerful, then you too must practice these values,” he said. “Children learn more from what they see than from what they are told.”
Turning his attention to the youth, Bishop Odongo cautioned against the misuse of life and engagement in harmful behaviors such as drug abuse and excessive alcohol consumption. He described these acts as dangerous habits that destroy not only the body but also the soul.
“Life is precious and short,” he reminded the congregation. “We shall all leave this world one day, so let us not misuse the gift of life by filling our bodies with harmful substances.
Many people today look old not because of age, but because of what they consume.”
He urged Christians to remember that their bodies are the temple of God and should be treated with care and reverence. “Protect your heart and soul,” the bishop said. “Live a life that honors God and brings peace to others.”
In conclusion, Bishop Odongo encouraged families to embrace prayer, love, and unity as central pillars of a successful Christian home. He said that when families live according to God’s word, they not only bring blessings to themselves but also become beacons of hope and inspiration to the wider society.
“Let our families be the light of Christ in our communities,” he said. “When our homes reflect love, peace, and respect, we build a society that glorifies God.”
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