KAMPALA, Uganda The Archbishop of Gulu Archdiocese, Raphael p’ Mony Wokorach, has officially blessed and commissioned a newly built Catholic church in Lukwangole Parish, Patongo Sub-County, Agago District.

The church was constructed by the Chief Justice, Alfonse Owiny-Dollo. The construction of St Matthew’s Chapel began in 2024. It was built in honour of Dollo’s parents: the late Mzee Kasimiro Ongom, who passed away in 1996, and the late Mego Paulina Angom, who passed away in 2012.

The event, held on Sunday, attracted hundreds of faithful, local leaders, judiciary members, officials from executive and parliament and other religious leaders.

Archdiocese, Raphael p’ Mony Wokorach, emphasised that Christianity serves as the foundation for peace, justice, and harmony, and that the church building allows people to celebrate on earth while preparing for eternal life.

He further stated that the church’s construction marks the beginning of a spiritual journey for the community. He urged the congregation to make good use of the church to become better people. “Let us build our society.

”As we bless this church, we also give thanks for the countless blessings God has poured on us as the Parish of Patongo. Bishop Wokorach said

Chief Justice Alphonse Owiny-Dollo explained that the church represents the fulfilment of a promise he made to honour his parents, who raised him with strong Christian values despite hardships.

Martina Lamaji, Owiny-Dollo’s sister, thanked the Chief Justice for the new church, noting that many people had to walk over 4 kilometres to Patongo Catholic Parish to attend services. She pointed out that some older members of the community could no longer make the journey.

Those who used to be ardent churchgoers are now old and can’t walk to Patongo. Some people stopped attending church altogether, which denied them the benefits of fellowship,” Lamaji said.

In attendance was the Deputy Chief Justice Dr Flavian Zeija, Acting Principal Judge Justice Okuo Jane Kajuga, the Secretary to the Judiciary Dr Pius Bigirimana and the Acting Chief Registrar Hw Lamunu Pamella Ocaya, who was leading members of the lower bench, also witnessed the momentous occasion.