The Vicar General of Soroti Catholic Diocese, Rev. Fr. Robert Ecogu, has called on Christians to embrace humanity and strive to do what is right in their daily lives, reminding them that such actions pave the way to heaven and build a strong personal reputation.
Speaking during a thanksgiving Mass at Soroti Secondary School grounds, where the school held a celebration to honor top-performing students in the Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE), Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE), and outstanding teaching staff, Fr. Echogu emphasized the importance of portraying a positive image and surrounding oneself with a diverse group of friends.
“Make sure you have as many friends as you can, and let them be of all ages. Limiting yourself to friends of your own age is risky, you might easily get lost and abandoned,” Fr. Ecogu told the congregation.
He urged Christians to focus on doing small good deeds consistently and at the right time, noting that success in life is not based on miracles but on persistent effort and God’s grace.
“To succeed in life, do small things well and in the right time,” he said, especially addressing students.
“Passing exams is not by chance. It begins with consistent efforts like revising your books, praying, and hard work. Those we are celebrating today started their journey the moment they joined Senior One.”
Fr. Ecogu reminded Christians that God blesses people through the sacraments and that achieving God’s blessings is not difficult it starts with doing good, respecting Scripture, listening to God’s word, and acting on it.
“Many people ignore God’s call, but a few listen with open hearts, whether they are in church or a mosque. The Mass is the most powerful form of prayer. When someone opens their heart during Mass, demons are cast out, and their spirit is set free,” he explained.
“Those who disrupt Mass or lead others to do so are doing the devil’s work.”
He further encouraged sharing, especially of knowledge and resources, stating that charity opens the door to blessings.
He praised students who had succeeded academically, highlighting that their ability to share and help others had brought them favor.
“Do the little good things well and don’t disappoint your God,” he challenged Christians.
Fr. Ecogu also delivered a strong message about uplifting humanity, pointing out that even non-believers may find their way to heaven if they live righteous lives and act according to God’s will. He lamented that believers often fail to set a good example, becoming stumbling blocks for others.
“There are times when a non-believer, created in God’s image, uses their God-given intelligence to discern right from wrong better than believers. This can lead to transformation, especially among those who are psychologically or mentally affected,” he noted.
He warned against mistreating others in the name of religion, particularly within institutions like schools.
“When a teacher treats a student like a pagan, or student leaders handle their peers harshly while claiming to serve God, they become a roadblock to heaven.”
He concluded by urging Christians to be mindful of their positions and how their actions affect others.
“Whatever position you hold, be careful. You may not know what God is planning for someone else. Always do what is right to bless others, and you too shall be blessed.”
About Author
