The Archbishop Emeritus of Gulu Archdiocese, His Grace John Baptist Odama, has attributed the rising cases of corruption in Uganda to excessive greed for money and material possessions.
Delivering his homily on the 25th Sunday in Ordinary Time at Our Lady of Good Shepherd Rushoraza Cathedral Parish in Kabale District, Archbishop Odama warned Christians against allowing wealth to mislead them.
His remarks came as he concluded his pastoral tour of Kabale Diocese, where he promoted devotion to the Uganda Martyrs, particularly Blessed Daudi Okello, Blessed Jildo Irwa, and Blessed Joseph Ambrosoli.
“Corruption remains rampant in Uganda because of the increasing greed for money and worldly things. This has forced many Ugandans to live in a world of corruption,” Archbishop Odama said, adding that such behavior distorts the true values of life. “That is not correct. It is like putting the head upside down. Put it correct and respect love for one another.”
He condemned the misuse of wealth to fund wars, noting that many of the conflicts the world faces today are fueled by wealthy individuals and nations pursuing selfish interests.
He emphasized that these resources should instead be directed toward charitable and Godly projects.
“The greed for wealth and power has driven many conflicts, causing immense suffering and loss of life. True wealth lies not in accumulating material goods but in nurturing a good relationship with God, with others, and with those in need,” he said.
Archbishop Odama urged Christians to use their wealth to glorify God’s Church through acts of charity such as feeding the poor, supporting the needy, and investing in education and health services.
He also called for collective efforts to root out corruption, beginning at family level, by living a true Christian life of love and integrity.
CUE IN ARCHBISHOP ODAMA…..ON THE MATTER……ENG//
As part of his pastoral mission, Archbishop Odama handed over relics of Blessed Daudi Okello and Blessed Jildo Irwa for veneration, further encouraging devotion to the Uganda Martyrs across Catholic dioceses in the country.
