By Sebastian Bogere
Gulu, Uganda: Religious and political leaders in Gulu City have expressed growing concern over the increasing rivalry among pastors in the Acholi Sub-region, calling for immediate reconciliation and unity to support the spiritual and social transformation of the community.
During the dedication service of the newly constructed House of Prayer for All Nations Cathedral in Gulu City, speakers decried the discord among local clergy, warning that the feuds are tarnishing the integrity of the Christian faith and weakening the influence of the Church.
Dr. Dickson Obwoya, an evangelist, condemned the divisionism and jealousy plaguing church leadership, urging pastors to repent and refocus their ministries on service, not sabotage. “Pastors, let us serve God in true faith. Let’s stop witch-hunting our colleagues. It is not what God has called us to do,” he said.
Dr. Obwoya emphasized that such infighting within the Church contributes to the broader societal divisions in Acholi, adding that leaders who cannot resolve their own differences are unlikely to guide their flocks effectively.
Bardege-Layibi Division MP Martin Ojara Mapenduzi echoed similar sentiments, revealing he has long been involved in mediating disputes among Gulu-based pastors since his time as Speaker and Chairman of Gulu Municipal Council.
“Pastors in other regions are united and progressing. What is wrong with you Gulu pastors?” Mapenduzi asked bluntly.
He listed jealousy, mistrust, and ignorance as the core issues fueling the disunity and challenged the clergy to use the Easter period as a time for reflection and renewal. “How do you hate someone you barely know? It’s time to make amends for the sake of your followers,” the MP urged.
Pastors Respond to the Call
Pastor George Okumu of Pentecostal Assemblies of God in Pabo, Amuru District, welcomed the rebuke, calling it timely and humbling. “As pastors, we must emulate Jesus, who taught love. I’ll emphasise unity and love in my ministry,” he said, quoting John 17:21.
Similarly, Pastor Denis Akera of Antioch Church in Bardege-Layibi Division pledged to champion the message of righteousness and togetherness. “This is a call for unity. Our ministries can only make a real impact if we walk in love and humility.”
Christians Weigh In
Margret Akello, a member of Gulu Livingstone Church, said the message was much needed, especially for religious leaders straying from God’s path. “It’s a call to return to righteousness. Without God, our land is dead,” she remarked.
Rose Wendi, another congregant, thanked MP Mapenduzi for boldly speaking out. “Rivalries among leaders trickle down to us members. We now have to choose whether to embrace God’s voice or ignore it,” she added.
About the New Cathedral
The House of Prayer for All Nations, a 1,500-seater cathedral located in central Gulu City, was constructed by Favor of God Ministries over a two-year period from January 2023 to April 2025 at a cost of approximately UGX 2 billion.
According to Mike Sevenska Shabiti, the ministry’s Quality Assurance and PR Officer, the cathedral was designed as an interdenominational space for united worship and fellowship across faith lines.
The dedication was presided over by Rev. Dr. John Mulinde, founder of World Trumpet Mission, and drew hundreds of believers in a powerful Easter weekend service aimed at restoring unity within the Church.
Send us your story or opinion on: [email protected]. You can also follow Daily Express on WhatsApp for all the latest news and updates.
