Alokolum National Major Seminary Welcomes New Vice Rector as Golden Jubilee Celebrations Begin
By Mr Odeke
GULU, UGANDA — Alokolum National Major Seminary has officially received a new Vice Rector, Rev. Fr. Wilfred Okello, a priest from Kotido Catholic Diocese. The announcement was confirmed on Saturday by the Bishop of Soroti Catholic Diocese, Rt. Rev. Dr. Joseph Eciru Oliach, during the launch of the seminary’s Golden Jubilee celebrations.
Bishop Eciru, who also serves as the Vice Chairperson for Priestly Formation at the Uganda Episcopal Conference, delivered the announcement on behalf of Bishop Francis Aquirinus Kibira Kambale of Kasese Diocese, the Chairperson for Priestly Formation.
The position of Vice Rector had fallen vacant following the elevation of the former holder, Rt. Rev. Dr. Constantine Rupiny, who was appointed Bishop of Nebbi Diocese by Pope Francis on November 26, 2024. His appointment created a leadership gap at Alokolum, prompting the Episcopal Conference to assign a capable successor to maintain continuity in priestly formation.
Bishop Eciru emphasized that Fr. Okello’s appointment “takes immediate effect,” describing him as a committed and pastoral priest whose formation background makes him well suited for the task ahead. He noted that the seminary will benefit greatly from Fr. Okello’s experience as it continues its mission of nurturing and preparing future priests grounded in prayer, discipline, and service.
The announcement took place during a grand celebration that drew clergy, seminarians, religious communities, and hundreds of faithful from across Northern Uganda. The Golden Jubilee marks 50 years of the seminary’s contribution to priestly formation in the country.
During the Jubilee launch Mass, Bishop Eciru delivered a powerful homily reflecting on the demanding nature of Christian discipleship and priestly vocation. Drawing inspiration from Scripture and Church tradition, he reminded the congregation that authentic holiness often requires what he termed “a certain dose of madness.”
“Either we are Christians or we are not,” he declared, urging the faithful to embrace their identity with conviction and courage. He explained that true Christian witness demands consistency, integrity, and the strength to resist temptations and societal pressures that compromise spiritual commitment.
Addressing seminarians directly, Bishop Eciru cautioned them against living double lives or conforming to behaviour inconsistent with their calling. “Let people not struggle to recognize you,” he said. “Be who you are — a seminarian — and walk the talk.”
He stressed the importance of taking personal responsibility for their vocation, urging them to be “their own guards” in the lifelong journey toward holiness. According to the Bishop, the formation process requires discipline, self-awareness, and constant vigilance over one’s intentions and actions.
Bishop Eciru further reminded the seminarians that prayer must remain the anchor of their lives. He encouraged them to approach prayer not as a mere obligation but as an authentic expression of faith. “Be persistent in prayer,” he urged. “Remain sober in the Lord and let your commitment to prayer shape your character and mission.”
His message resonated deeply with the congregation, many of whom praised his clear, direct, and inspiring guidance.
The appointment of Rev. Fr. Wilfred Okello marks a new chapter for Alokolum National Major Seminary as it embarks on its 50-year milestone. Founded to foster vocations and shape shepherds for the Church, the institution remains a pillar of spiritual and intellectual formation for priests in Uganda.
