SOROTI CITY : During his sermon at Odudui Catholic Church today, Rev. Fr. Marcel Ajoket, the Parish Priest of Dakabela Catholic Parish and Director of Communications for Soroti Catholic Diocese, delivered a strong message to men, urging them to prioritize their families above leisure activities and criminal behavior.
Fr. Ajoket expressed concern over a growing issue where many fathers abandon their responsibilities, leaving their wives to manage family affairs alone.
He acknowledged the fathers present at the church who had brought their children for baptism, praising their dedication to fostering their children’s spiritual growth and well-being.
This act, he noted, was a testament to their commitment to the family unit and the future generation.
However, Fr. Ajoket did not shy away from addressing the negative behavior of those who neglect their roles as family heads. “Some men have left their wives to suffer while they spend their time in bars, playing cards, and engaging in other distractions,” he lamented.
He explained that such behavior undermines the stability of marriages and leads to a breakdown in family structures.
Fr. Ajoket observed that the absence of responsible male figures in many households leaves women feeling like single parents or widows, burdened with both financial and emotional responsibilities.
He emphasized that the neglect by men to fulfill their roles has eroded confidence in the institution of marriage and has contributed to rising family disintegration.
“Men are not exercising their responsibilities as heads of the family,” Fr. Ajoket stated, calling for a shift towards active involvement in family life.
He urged fathers to take initiative in their homes by engaging in projects that would not only support their children but also benefit the church and the broader community.
Fr. Ajoket’s message called for a cultural shift where men move away from idle and destructive habits and instead, invest their time in meaningful and productive activities. His call to action was clear, men must become positive contributors to the household, reinforcing the family structure and fostering a supportive environment for their children.
Addressing the broader community, Fr. Ajoket appealed to all parents to reassess their priorities and strengthen their commitment to their roles as guardians and providers. “We must do better for our children and ourselves,” he urged, emphasizing the collective responsibility to create a nurturing and stable environment for future generations.
His words resonated deeply in a society facing increasing social challenges and family breakdowns, offering a poignant reminder of the importance of family unity and the pivotal role that men play in upholding it.
