Apac, Uganda: Clergy in Apac have called for forgiveness, unity, and moral renewal as hundreds of Christians from Catholic and Anglican churches joined a public Way of the Cross procession through Apac Town on Good Friday.
The solemn procession, led by Rev. Fr. John Baptist Aligi of Apac Catholic Parish and Rt. Rev. Ven. James Okee, Archdeacon of Apac Urban Archdeaconry, brought together believers in a powerful display of ecumenical unity.
The faithful moved through different stations across town, pausing for prayers, hymns, and reflections centered on the suffering and sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
“The Way of the Cross is not just a movement through the streets; it is a journey of the heart,” Rev. Fr. Aligi told participants. “We are called to reflect, repent, and seek forgiveness where we have wronged others.”
Archdeacon Okee emphasized that forgiveness is essential for healing communities and fostering peace. “Without forgiveness, we plant seeds of division. But when we forgive, we open the door to healing and peace,” he said.
Adding spiritual depth to the event, Bishop Emeritus of West Lango Diocese, Alfred Acur Okodi, urged Christians to emulate Christ’s compassion.
“Jesus’ crucifixion was a sacrifice for our sins, showing God’s love. Even while being crucified, He asked for forgiveness for those who didn’t understand,” he said.
The joint procession highlighted growing cooperation between denominations, with clergy stressing that faith should unite rather than divide. “When we come together like this, we show the world that faith can unite rather than divide,” Rev. Fr. Aligi noted.
Participants described the experience as deeply moving and transformative. “It has reminded me to forgive those I have been holding grudges against,” one believer said.
Call for Moral Renewal
During Easter messages, clergy urged Christians to abandon harmful behaviours, particularly alcoholism, and embrace peaceful conflict resolution.
“Alcoholism destroys families, erodes productivity, and deepens poverty. We must reject it and invest in our future,” Archdeacon Okee warned.
As the event concluded, leaders called on believers to carry the message of forgiveness into their daily lives. “Let this not end here. Let forgiveness guide our actions every day—in our homes, workplaces, and across our nation,” Okee said.
The annual Way of the Cross continues to serve as a powerful platform for reflection, unity, and moral renewal in Apac.
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