A wave of joy and reverence swept through Moroto District on Saturday as thousands of faithful gathered to witness the consecration and inauguration of the newly constructed Cathedral of the Merciful Love of Jesus, a historic milestone in the Moroto Catholic Diocese.
The grand celebration took place in Nakapelimen village, Moroto Municipality, and was presided over by His Excellency Archbishop Luigi Bianco, the Apostolic Nuncio to Uganda. The event was graced by several dignitaries, including Uganda’s Vice President Maj. (Rtd) Jessica Alupo Epel, who delivered a message from President Yoweri Museveni.
In his homily, Archbishop Bianco described the new cathedral as more than a structure, calling it a sacred space consecrated for worship, ministry, and a symbol of God’s abiding presence.
“This cathedral is a place to encounter God’s mercy, to pray, to serve, and to grow in faith. May every person who enters here receive the grace of prayer, mercy, and thanksgiving,” he said.
He urged the faithful not to view the cathedral as a mere architectural marvel but as a living house of prayer, nurturing the spiritual life of the community.
In a speech delivered on his behalf, President Museveni congratulated the Uganda Episcopal Conference and the global Catholic Church on the election of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV. He praised the construction of the cathedral as a manifestation of faith, unity, and resilience.
“I commend everyone who contributed to this great achievement through sacrifice, giving, and fundraising,” the President said. “Dedicating this cathedral to the Merciful Love of Jesus reflects the biblical principle of faith demonstrated through action.”
Quoting James 2:14, President Museveni emphasized that faith must be accompanied by deeds.
“Your commitment to building this cathedral is a true testament of love in action, a reflection of Christ’s teachings,” he added.
He also lauded the Catholic Church’s historic role in national development, particularly in education, health, and social services. “The Church has long been a key partner in transforming society, not only in Moroto but across Uganda,” the President said.
President Museveni highlighted the government’s continued efforts to foster peace, security, and economic empowerment. He pointed to initiatives such as Emyooga, Operation Wealth Creation, and the Parish Development Model as strategic tools aimed at eradicating poverty from the grassroots.
“We must break free from the chains of dependency and embrace a culture of hard work and self-reliance. Development begins at the household level,” he said.
He further emphasized the role of spirituality in national progress, noting that moral values like integrity and compassion foster sustainable development and help curb corruption, an obstacle hindering growth across Africa.
“The Church should complement government efforts by initiating projects that empower communities and reduce overreliance on public resources,” he urged.
Bishop Damiano Guzzetti of Moroto Diocese expressed deep gratitude and reflected on the significance of the day.
“The consecration of a cathedral is a declaration of faith, a commitment to God, and a symbol of the sacredness of this space. It is a spiritual home for our diocese, built through unity and devotion,” he said.
He thanked the community, government, and all contributors for making the cathedral a reality, noting that it stands not only as a religious landmark but also as a beacon of hope and faith for generations to come.
As the bells of the new cathedral rang out for the first time, marking its official dedication, the faithful rejoiced, celebrating a sacred space that now anchors the spiritual life of Moroto Diocese.
