By Flavia Oyuu, Communications Office, Lira Catholic Diocese
The burial of Rev. Fr. Ponsiano Okalo, the former Vicar of the Clergy of Lira Diocese and Curate of St. Peter Claver Ober Sub-Parish, was marked with extraordinary attendance and emotion this evening, as hundreds of mourners gathered to pay their last respects.
Fr. Okalo was laid to rest at St. Daniel Comboni Diocesan Headquarters in Barogole, Lira City West Division, following a solemn funeral Mass at Uganda Martyrs Cathedral, just about a kilometer away. The liturgy was attended by high-ranking clergy and delegations from across Uganda, including representatives from Gulu Archdiocese, Nebbi Diocese, Soroti Diocese, Kitgum Diaconate, and Tororo Archdiocese.
Also in attendance was the Bishop of Kotido Diocese, Rt. Rev. Dominic Eibu, among other dignitaries.
In his homily, the Bishop of Lira Diocese, Rt. Rev. Sanctus Lino Wanok, warned Christians against persecuting others, noting that such actions invite curses and separate people from God’s love.
He urged believers to meditate on the word of God that Fr. Okalo preached during his priestly service, and to live out the Christian values of love, peace, and salvation, especially in their homes, workplaces, and communities—through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
As the Rt. Rev. Sanctus Lino Wanok, Bishop of Lira Diocese, reflected on the sudden passing of their beloved brother and priest, “he slipped away in the night like a thief,” the bishop said, echoing the Lord’s words, “Be prepared for action, for the Son of Man is coming at an unexpected hour.”
He said that this unexpected departure reminds us that our time is short, and we must live each day with purpose and faith. Monsignor Okalo was more than just a priest; he was a friend, a brother, and a guiding light to many.
As a counselor and teacher, he touched countless lives with kindness and compassion. His passing leaves a void, but we find comfort in the hope and faith that sustained him.
The bishop said that as we stand at the foot of the cross with the Blessed Virgin Mary and the beloved disciple, we are reminded that even in sorrow, there is hope.
Bishop Wanok, while quoting the prophet Isaiah’s words, “On this mountain, the Lord of Hosts will make for all people a feast, and He will destroy death forever and wipe away every tear,” offers us a bouquet of hope. Death is not the end; it is a transition to eternal life. And if the Spirit of the one who raised Christ from the dead dwells in us, we too shall experience victory over mortality.
As we bid farewell to Monsignor Okalo, we celebrate his life, his ministry, and the legacy he leaves behind. May his memory inspire us to live with greater faith, hope, and love.
The Director of St. John XXIII Hospital Aber, Rev. Fr. Dr. Samuel Okori, where Fr. Okalo passed on, revealed that the cause of death was a blood clot. He used the moment to educate the public about risk factors leading to blood clots, such as prolonged sitting, smoking, alcoholism, tight clothing, obesity, and poor diet. He encouraged physical activity, proper hydration, and a healthy lifestyle.
The Chairperson of the Laity in Lira Diocese, Mr. Jovino Akaki Ayumu, encouraged parents to allow their children to join the seminary and pursue the priesthood, inspired by the exemplary life and service of Fr. Okalo.
Hon. Peter Ocen Akalo, MP for Kole South, Fr. Okalo’s home constituency, described his death as a moment for reflection. He called on the political class in Lango to embrace the late priest’s message of love, unity, and hard work.
Meanwhile, the family has announced plans to hold a posthumous celebration of Fr. Ponsiano Okalo’s 25th priestly anniversary on August 11, 2025, at their home in Bala Sub-county, Kole District.
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