The Bishop of Soroti Catholic Diocese, Rt. Rev. Dr. Joseph Eciru Oliach, has called on Christians to deepen their faith, live lives of purity, and reject the temptation to participate in violent elections in exchange for small sums of money.
Speaking during his homily at the Most Precious Blood of Jesus Catholic Parish–Odokai Day celebrations on Wednesday July 09, 2025, Bishop Ecir appealed for moral renewal, peace, and integrity within the community.
Reflecting on the theme of the day, the Bishop encouraged Christians to “live a life that works in the light of the precious blood of Jesus Christ,” reminding them that everything granted by God is precious and must be treated with reverence.
“God has made each of us precious in His sight,” Bishop Eciru said. “If only people understood and lived this truth, there would be no corruption, no murder, no poisoning, no divisions fueled by election bribes. We must be God’s called, living a life of purity. It becomes impossible to become saints without the blood of Jesus Christ.”
He challenged the faithful to embrace a “sacramental” way of life, treating all of life’s gifts as holy.
He especially urged married couples to care for their families “preciously” and to guard them “jealously” against threats to unity and faith.
“Our families are gifts from God, meant to be protected and cherished,” the Bishop said. “A healthy family is the foundation of a healthy Church and a healthy nation.”
Bishop Eciru’s message carried a strong warning against the practice of accepting small sums of money to fuel electoral violence.
With elections often sparking tensions and clashes in various parts of Uganda, his call was particularly timely.
He lamented the willingness of some people to sell their conscience cheaply, warning that violence destroys communities and undermines the dignity of every human being.
“Walk in faith,” he urged. “Desist from violent elections over small monies. No true believer should allow themselves to be used to harm others because of political rivalry. We must reject all temptations to sacrifice peace for short-lived gain.”
The Bishop also expressed concern over the rise in drug abuse among young people in the region.
He described substance abuse as a destructive path that erodes moral values, breaks families, and derails the dreams of the youth.
He urged parents, Church leaders, and the wider community to work together to fight this scourge.
Bishop Eciru also exhorted Christians to “guard the faith preciously” in the face of spiritual and moral challenges.
He warned that without firm commitment to their beliefs, many would be led astray by false promises, greed, and violence.
Throughout his homily, Bishop Eciru emphasized the need for peace and unity in families, communities, and the nation. He reminded Christians that they are all God’s children and that divisions, political, tribal, or personal, are contrary to God’s plan.
He closed with a prayer that the blood of Jesus would cleanse and transform all who seek to live according to God’s will.
“As we celebrate the Most Precious Blood of Jesus, let us recommit ourselves to living lives worthy of His sacrifice,” he said. “Let us become peacemakers, truth-tellers, and protectors of all that is holy and precious in this world.”
About Author
