Pilgrims Gather at Pakuba For Mass Ahead Of Omach Day Celebrations
PAKUBA, Nebbi Diocese, -
Hundreds of Christians gathered on 5 March at Pakuba in Murchison
Falls National Park for a pilgrimage Mass marking the grace of faith brought to the region
through Bishop Xavier Geyer and the early Comboni missionaries.
The pilgrimage formed the final spiritual preparation for Omach Day, commemorating Chief Omach,
the Rwoth of the Jonam/Alur people, who welcomed the missionaries when they arrived at Pakuba on
December 17, 1910. His hospitality allowed the establishment of the first Catholic mission in
Northern Uganda, from which evangelization later spread to Gulu (1911), Arua (1912), and Lira (1915).
The Eucharistic celebration was led by the Bishop of Arua Diocese, Rt. Rev. Sabino Ocan Odoki,
who reflected on the Lenten message of the Holy Father Pope Leo XIV, calling Christians to be welcoming and
good listeners to one another. He related this message to the example of Rwoth Omach and to the
biblical story of Abraham, who welcomed three mysterious visitors, later revealed as messengers
of God, demonstrating the power of hospitality and openness to God.
He further encouraged Christians to embrace hospitality and service to others, reminding them
that in welcoming others they may be receiving God's own presence. He also echoed the Holy
Father's call during this Lenten season for Christians to avoid harsh words and judgment,
particularly on social media, and instead practice listening, patience, and truth.
Bishop Sabino urged the faithful to renew their commitment to Christ, especially through the
Eucharist, and to live a consistent Christian life. He reminded believers that many people
today fear fully embracing the Christian life because of possible trials, yet God's grace often
comes through unexpected encounters.
The bishop also thanked the Uganda Wildlife Authority and the park management for allowing the
celebration to take place within Murchison Falls National Park, noting their warm welcome despite
limitations on the number of pilgrims allowed at the site.
Preparations continue at Omach Chapel in Pakech Jukaal Village, where cleaning and renovation works
are underway ahead of the main celebration on 6 March, which will be presided over by the Bishop of
Lira, with Olepi Deanery leading the liturgy.
This year's celebration is guided by the theme: "Pilgrims of Hope Now Reached by the Living Bread"
(John 6:61).
The bishop also expressed appreciation for the many elderly faithful who participated in the pilgrimage,
encouraging younger Christians to learn perseverance and faith from them as they continue walking in the
footsteps of Christ.
