On February 22, 2025, Rt. Rev. Constantine Rupiny was installed as the fifth Bishop of Nebbi Catholic Diocese. The event celebrated his commitment to serve the community and address the prevalent issues of poverty and political division, with calls for unity and collaboration between church and government for societal improvement.
The Catholic Diocese of Nebbi celebrated a momentous occasion on February 22, 2025, marked by the ordination and installation of Rt. Rev. Constantine Rupiny as the fifth Bishop. This event followed the vacancy left by Most Rev. Raphael p’Mony Wokorach, who was appointed Bishop of Nebbi in March 2024 and served for three years.
His Excellency Bianco Luigi, the Apostolic Nuncio to Uganda, confirmed Bishop Rupiny’s appointment to the enthusiastic audience at the Diocesan Ceremonial ground, immediately after announcing the Pope’s message from the Holy See in Rome. The ceremony saw Archbishop Raphael p’Omony Wokorach of Gulu serve as the principal consecrator, along with co-consecrators Archbishop Luigi Bianco and Bishop Francis Aquirinus Kibira of Kasese.
In his address, Bishop Rupiny expressed his dedication to serving all individuals within the diocese and emphasized collaboration with clergy, religious, and laity alike. He acknowledged the government’s successful wealth creation initiatives but voiced concern regarding poverty levels affecting the diocese significantly.
Archbishop Wokorach, during his homily, criticized the divisive nature of current political practices, asserting that selfish motivations among the youth led to harmful political divisions. He lamented the deteriorating condition of infrastructure, attributing this to political interference, and warned that such politicization hinders community development.
Encouraging Bishop Rupiny, Archbishop Wokorach stressed the community’s desire for justice and healing, reminding the new bishop that he has been appointed to serve the confused population seeking guidance. He urged Rupiny to accept his mission with humility, embodying unity and hope.
Representing President Yoweri Museveni, Uganda’s Vice President Jessica Alupo pledged government support for the Church’s mission. She urged Bishop Rupiny to serve with selflessness and stated that leadership challenges must be addressed through divine guidance and an emphasis on the virtues of love, unity, and hard work. Alupo also called for collaboration between government and religious leaders to combat poverty and elevate the community’s economic status.
The installation of Rt. Rev. Constantine Rupiny as the fifth Bishop of Nebbi Catholic Diocese marks a significant milestone for the Catholic community. Bishop Rupiny’s commitment to serving the people and addressing pressing issues like poverty aligns with the sentiments expressed by Archbishop Wokorach regarding social justice and political integrity. Furthermore, the support from governmental institutions underlines the importance of collaboration in tackling societal challenges.
Original Source: communications.amecea.org
