Preaching during the Holy Thursday Mass of the Lord’s Supper at Uganda Martyrs Cathedral, Lira, Bishop Wanok reminded the faithful that the Eucharist remains the heart of the Church’s life and the source of strength for every Christian.
By Flavia Oyuu, Communications Office, Lira Diocese
Lira, Uganda — The Bishop of Lira Diocese, Rt. Rev. Sanctus Lino Wanok, has called on Christians to deepen their love for the Eucharist and embrace a life of humble service as the Church begins the celebration of the Sacred Triduum.
Preaching during the Holy Thursday Mass of the Lord’s Supper at Uganda Martyrs Cathedral, Lira, Bishop Wanok reminded the faithful that the Eucharist remains the heart of the Church’s life and the source of strength for every Christian.
“The Eucharist we celebrate is not only a symbol; it is the living presence of Jesus giving himself up for us, body and blood,” the Bishop said.
Reflecting on the mystery of the Eucharist, Bishop Wanok explained that through the sacrament Christ continues to remain with His people, nourishing and uniting them as one body.
“Without the Eucharist, the Church would be lost. There is no life in a Church without the Eucharist.”
He noted that every time Christians gather for Mass they come to the table of the new covenant where Christ feeds the hungry, strengthens the weak and offers mercy to sinners.
The Holy Thursday celebration commemorates the institution of the Holy Eucharist and the ministerial priesthood, two gifts Christ entrusted to the Church during the Last Supper.
The Bishop expressed gratitude for priests who dedicate their lives to serving God’s people and reminded them that their vocation is rooted in service rather than privilege.
“Priesthood is never about privilege; it is about service. You are ordained to be a servant of every Christian.”
Drawing from the Gospel account of Jesus washing the feet of His disciples, Bishop Wanok emphasized that Christian leadership must always reflect humility.
“The one who is Lord becomes a servant. The one who gives commandments kneels down in humility,” he said, adding that authority in the Church must always resemble “the towel and the basin.”
The Bishop also challenged the faithful to allow the Eucharist they receive to transform their lives by practicing forgiveness, reconciliation and charity.
“The Christian who receives communion but does not forgive, reconcile or serve others has not yet fully understood the gift.”
Speaking about the realities faced by many families, including poverty and social struggles, Bishop Wanok encouraged Christians to bring the love of Christ into their homes and communities.
“The Eucharist is not only for the sanctuary; it must reach the streets of Lira,” he said. “Every home must become Eucharistic.”
He further cautioned against acts of violence such as mob justice, urging Christians to imitate Christ’s mercy even in difficult situations.
“After meeting Christ who died for sinners, we must behave differently,” the Bishop told the congregation.
In conclusion, Bishop Wanok invited the faithful to pray for three important graces: a deeper love for the Eucharist, a renewed understanding of priesthood, and a humble spirit of service.
He encouraged families in the diocese to intentionally visit the Blessed Sacrament and strengthen their relationship with Christ.
“The Church becomes beautiful when the altar and service belong together, when worship and charity walk hand in hand.”
Holy Thursday marks the beginning of the Easter Triduum, the most sacred period in the Catholic liturgical calendar, during which the Church commemorates the Passion, Death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ.
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