By Flavia Oyuu, Communications Office, Lira Diocese
Only hearts rooted in love and integrity can build the Uganda we dream of, priest tells faithful.
As Uganda marked her 63rd Independence Anniversary on 9th October 2025, Rev. Fr. Vincent Okullu, the Curate of Blessed Sacrament Aber Parish in Oyam District, called on the faithful to begin with a change of heart if they want to see a corruption-free Uganda.
In his homily, Fr. Vincent began by recounting how Uganda gained her independence from the British, who had placed the country under a British Protectorate, unlike Kenya and Tanzania, which were British Territories.
He noted that many Ugandans often lament about corrupt leaders, yet forget that they too participate in corruption. He explained that corruption does not only mean misusing government funds, but also failing to act justly in matters that should benefit the wider community.
“Unless there is a change in the hearts of Ugandans, beginning with each one of us gathered here today, and unless we do good even in small things, there will be no change at the top,” he emphasized.
Fr. Vincent reminded the congregation that when the British came to Uganda, they sought to drive away ignorance through education, healthcare, and religion, sacrifices they made selflessly. He likened Africa’s “dark skin” to the darkness of the heart caused by selfishness and greed, saying that for a nation to develop, its people must learn accountability.
He observed that if Ugandans had truly embraced both the teachings of the missionaries and the Word of God, the country would have seen far greater progress. He urged Christians to cultivate hearts that love and care for one another, saying:
“If only our hearts and eyes were open, we would experience peace, harmony, and economic growth, just like the developed nations of the West.”
Reflecting on Uganda’s 63 years of independence, Fr. Vincent wondered where the nation’s wealth had gone, blaming greed and exploitation by a few at the expense of the many.
He also addressed politicians, urging them to go to Parliament to serve their constituents rather than their personal interests.
“The President is struggling to improve the livelihoods of Ugandans, he brought Bonabagagawale, and now we have PDM, but a few people are spoiling Mzee’s efforts,” he said.
Reflecting on the day’s reading from the Prophet Malachi, Fr. Vincent reminded the faithful that God forgives those who turn back to Him:
“God does not segregate the good from the bad; He lets the rain fall even on the wicked.”
He encouraged the congregation to pray continuously for the conversion of hearts and for Uganda to be led by good and faithful citizens. He added that electing corrupt leaders who only think of themselves will always hinder development, no matter what the President does.
As he concluded, Fr. Vincent drew from St. Paul’s Letter to the Romans, urging Christians to pray for their leaders, especially during this Month of the Rosary:
“The Rosary is not for decoration. Showing God how best you know how to wear it, it is meant for prayer,” he said.
Fr. Vincent finally invited the faithful of Aber to restore the true meaning of Independence through prayer, thanking God for the gift of a nation richly blessed with beautiful fauna and flora.
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