By CISA
NEBBI, FEBRUARY 27, 2025 (CISA) – In a faith-filled and joyous celebration, Rt Rev Constantine Rupiny was installed as the fifth bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Nebbi on February 22. The historic occasion drew bishops, clergy, and the faithful from across Uganda and beyond, all gathering to witness the consecration of the new shepherd of the diocese.
Bishop Rupiny was ordained by his predecessor, Most Rev Raphael p’Mony Wokorach, M.C.C.I., the Archbishop of the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Gulu, who served as the principal consecrator. He was assisted by Archbishop Luigi Bianco, the Apostolic Nuncio to Uganda, and Bishop Francis Aquirinus Kibira of Kasese as co-consecrators.
In his maiden speech, Bishop Rupiny reaffirmed his commitment to serving all segments of the Church, pledging to work closely with the clergy, religious, and laity. Acknowledging some positive strides made by government-driven wealth creation initiatives, he also highlighted the pressing issue of poverty in the diocese.
“Various wealth creation initiatives by the government are showing some positive improvement. But we still have poverty that is deeply rooted in our diocese, which covers Nebbi, Pakwach, and Zombo districts,” he said.
The ceremony attracted hundreds of faithful who filled the grounds to witness the consecration and installation of their new bishop, celebrating the moment with song, dance, and prayer.
In his homily, Archbishop Wokorach expressed concern over political divisions affecting the region.
“We have noted that some of your people here are engaged in politics to selfishness. It is divisive, manipulative politics which cannot bring development to the people,” he cautioned.
He further lamented the poor state of infrastructure and essential services, linking them to the consequences of political interference.
“Roads, schools, and health centers are not so good because of the pangs of bad politicization. We have politics that is highly commercialized, divisive, and manipulative instead of serving the common good,” he added.
Encouraging the new bishop to remain steadfast in his mission, Archbishop Wokorach reminded him of the people’s yearning for justice and healing.
“Much as the people feel disoriented, they are the people God has sent you to. This is your new Galilee. Uganda longs for justice and healing. You will be the elder of unity, hope, and encouragement,” admonished Wokorach.
He further urged Bishop Rupiny to embrace his role with humility and obedience.
“You are consecrated not to be a ruler or a dictator. Listen to the people and correct mistakes. We cannot be bishops, priests, or religious without obedience,” he emphasized.
Echoing the archbishop’s sentiments, Bishop Rupiny outlined key concerns affecting the diocese, emphasizing the need to uplift the community from poverty and improve social services.
“While incidences of multi-dimensional poverty are declining across the country, our people still suffer high levels of poverty in Nebbi Diocese. There is a high rate of child stunting, which affects educational attainment,” he said.
He also expressed concern over health challenges, particularly maternal anemia and infant mortality, calling for urgent interventions.
“From these looks of things, this part of Uganda needs serious empowerment. We request that the government should consider establishing one nursing and clinical center in Nebbi. This will enhance the capacity of health services,” he said.
Addressing the longstanding issue of poor infrastructure, Bishop Rupiny highlighted the deplorable state of the Nebbi-Goli-Paidha road.
“The roads are very poor and ugly,” he lamented, underscoring the need for government intervention to improve transportation and accessibility in the region.
Uganda’s Vice President, Jessica Alupo, who represented President Yoweri Museveni, pledged the government’s support to the Church’s mission. In her speech, she called on Bishop Rupiny to embrace his role with selfless service.
“The responsibility of shepherding the flock is an opportunity to serve the people of God. Give yourself selfless service and utilize vast experience in doing the work of God to his people. Challenges of leadership will require God’s intervention and preaching the gospel of love, unity, and hard work,” she said.
She also emphasized the need for collaboration between the government and religious leaders in addressing poverty: “Let us join hands to fight poverty among our people who are still outside the money economy. Religious leaders should continue to preach the gospel of hard work until everyone is brought into the money economy.”
Highlighting the Church’s contribution to development, she noted, “Through Church-founded projects, faith-based health initiatives are complementing government programs in improving standards of living.”
Bishop Rupiny takes over leadership from Archbishop Raphael Wokorach, who was elevated to be Archbishop of Gulu Ecclesiastical Province, succeeding Archbishop Emeritus John Baptist Odama.
