St. Benedict Catholic Church receives Shs4.2m boost from diaspora members

Pallisa, (UG):– Christians of St. Benedict Opadoi Catholic Church in Chelekura Parish, Tororo Archdiocese, are reaping the benefits of education as their children in the diaspora have contributed UGX 4.2 million towards the purchase of 120 bags of cement for plastering their church.

The church, located in Opadoi Central Village, Akisim Sub-county, Pallisa District, requires an estimated UGX 350 million to be completed to the required cathedral standards.

Mr. Gavas Opolot, the Chairperson of the Church Council, commended the sons and daughters of Opadoi for their generous contributions despite their personal commitments. He also praised parents for instilling a culture of supporting church development in their children.

“This is not the first time these youths have contributed to the church’s construction and development. Their continuous support is a testament to the impact of education, as most of the contributions come from the elite class of this community,” Opolot remarked.

He further encouraged Christians to invest in the church, stating that such records are preserved in heaven.

Delivering the cement on behalf of the 131-member diaspora group, church treasurer Edward Akais urged fellow Christians to pray for those working outside Pallisa. He also advised parents to speak blessings upon their children rather than curses.

“The tongue is like fire it burns when misused but blesses when properly utilized,” Akais noted.

Akais emphasized that their fundraising initiative was independent and did not involve any politicians. The group has also been raising funds to support labor costs and other essential materials, such as sand.

Jolly Clement Opado, Chairperson of the Church Building Committee, expressed gratitude for the unexpected contribution from the young members.

“These youth are not just future leaders of the church; they are the present generation actively steering its affairs. We, the elders, only provide guidance. I particularly commend Gabriel Mujale, the initiator of this initiative, and the entire team for their commitment. With doors and windows now installed, we are set to begin plastering before working on the floor,” Opado stated.

Gabriel Mujale, the lead mobilizer, explained that the initiative began as a WhatsApp group to connect youth from Opadoi. However, it soon evolved into a platform for structured discussions on supporting church development, leading to the creation of a formal contribution system.

The 131-member coordinating committee includes John Byantalo (Chairperson), Moses Otim (Vice Chairperson), Calvin Sanyu (Secretary), Justine Okiria (Assistant Secretary), Edward Akais (Treasurer), and Albert Ogoso (Deputy Treasurer). Other coordinators include Gabriel Mujale and Esther Amuge, who oversees contributions from the Middle East.

Mujale called on parents to provide contacts of their children living outside Pallisa to expand their mobilization efforts. “We are grateful to our brothers and sisters, including those who are not Catholic, for their unwavering support.”

The church leadership remains optimistic that with continued support, St. Benedict Opadoi Catholic Church will soon achieve its long-term construction goals.