Ebola Concerns Force Suspension of Bishop Simon Peter Engorait’s Homecoming Celebrations
By Mr Odeke
The long-awaited homecoming celebrations for Bishop Simon Peter Engorait have been postponed following the recent outbreak and continued prevalence of Ebola cases in some parts of Uganda, the leadership of the Soroti Catholic Diocese has announced.
The announcement was made through an official statement released by the Vicar General of the Diocese, Msgr. Robert Ecogu, who cited prevailing public health concerns and the need to safeguard the wellbeing of Christians, invited guests, and the wider community.
According to the statement addressed to the Chairman and Members of the Organizing Committee for the homecoming celebrations, the Diocese resolved that the anticipated event could not proceed as earlier scheduled until the country is officially declared Ebola-free.
“Given the prevailing health circumstances and alerts that are continuing to unfold every other subsequent day, Bishop Simon Peter Engorait will not be able to travel to Uganda as scheduled,” Msgr. Ecogu stated. “In other words, we cannot celebrate his homecoming yet until the country is declared Ebola-free and we are able to reschedule his homecoming.”
The development comes at a time when preparations for the historic event had gained momentum, with various committees mobilizing resources and coordinating logistical arrangements for what many believers described as a significant thanksgiving occasion for the Diocese and the wider Catholic Church.
Despite the postponement, the Diocese leadership encouraged members of the organizing committee and Christians across the region not to lose hope or slow down preparations for the eventual celebrations.
Msgr. Ecogu commended the dedication and commitment demonstrated by committee members and supporters who have continued contributing towards the success of the planned event.
“Thank you for the serious commitment with which we are working towards the success of this very historic event,” he noted. “I thank each and every one for the generous contributions we are making toward the different aspects of the planned ceremonies.”
The Vicar General further emphasized that the postponement should instead serve as an opportunity for the Diocese to strengthen preparations and intensify resource mobilization efforts for the planned activities and infrastructure projects associated with the homecoming.
He particularly called upon Christians, well-wishers, and stakeholders to continue supporting the construction of two major memorial projects expected to form part of the celebrations.
“These are the times now for us to mobilize aggressively for resources to enable us complete at least the foundation works of the two memorial structures,” Msgr. Ecogu stated.
The projects include the proposed Bishop Eciru Dormitory at Ngora Demonstration Primary School and the Bishop Engorait Pavilion at the Diocesan Events Grounds. According to the Diocese, the structures are intended to serve both as functional facilities and enduring symbols of faith, leadership, and service within the Church.
Catholics within the Diocese had eagerly anticipated the homecoming event, viewing it as a special opportunity to celebrate the contributions and blessings the Church has continued to receive through its leadership and ministry. Although disappointing to many faithful, the postponement has largely been received with understanding amid growing concerns over Ebola and the risks associated with large public gatherings.
Health experts and government authorities have in recent weeks continued issuing alerts and precautionary measures aimed at preventing further spread of the deadly disease. Religious institutions, schools, and community organizations across the country have also been urged to remain vigilant and prioritize public safety.
The Soroti Catholic Diocese has meanwhile called upon believers to remain united in prayer and maintain faith during the uncertain period.
“Trusting in God’s boundless love for us, and in the protection of His mighty hand against all forms of infirmity, let us keep our foot on the pedal as we gear up for this massive day of thanksgiving for the blessings that the good Lord has accorded to our Diocese and to His universal Church,” the statement read.
The Diocese further appealed to Christians not to relent in supporting church activities and developmental initiatives despite the temporary setback.
