His Grace Raphael Wokorach Installed as Archbishop of Gulu Archdiocese

His Grace Raphael Wokorach has been installed as the Archbishop of Gulu Archdiocese.

His installation took place on Friday, 12th July, at a fully packed St Joseph’s Cathedral Gulu. The ceremony was officiated by the Apostolic Nuncio of Uganda, Luigi Bianco.

Archbishop Raphael Wokorach becomes just the second Archbishop of the Gulu Archdiocese. He replaces the longest-serving Archbishop Emeritus, John Baptist Odama. His Grace Odama served Gulu Archdiocese for 25 years. Being the first Archbishop at its elevation to an Archdiocese, His Grace Odama was a central figure in the pacification of Northern Uganda. He was part of the peace talks between the Government and LRA Commander Joseph Kony. Odama retired on March 22 after clocking 75 years of age.

While preaching at his installation, His Grace Raphael Wokorach acknowledged the massive shoes he has to fill. However, he assured the Catholic faithful of his commitment to serve them diligently. He also preached that the authority of leadership comes from the Lord.His Grace Wokorach also called upon Archbishop Emeritus Odama to not leave the Ministry.

“You have been retired by age, but you can still do much in the Ministry. You are here and we shall minister together to the people whom you have served for all these years. We pray for the archdiocese and the sustenance of God to keep you in the Ministry.” said His Grace Raphael Wokorach.

His Grace Wokorach tasked

In his remarks, His Grace Odama tasked the new archbishop to champion the eradication of domestic violence in the metropolitan area of Gulu. He also asked the Catholic faithful to support His Grace Raphael in his ministry.

The Chief guest at the ceremony was Vice President Her Excellency Jessica Alupo. Fresh from an Introspection Retreat at the National Leadership Institute Kyankwanzi, VP Alupo commended His Grace Raphael Wokorach’s attributes.

Additionally, VP Alupo read President Museveni’s speech in which he acknowledged that Archbishop Wokorach is God’s choice. The President also gifted the newly installed Archbishop shs 40 million. This and a brand new Land Cruiser car were both delivered by the Vice President.

Other notable guests that attended the event included Chief Justice Owiny Dollo and NRM Secretary General Richard Todwong. The leadership of NUP was represented by Party President Robert Kyagulanyi and Deputy Lina Zedriga.