In the middle of the novena prayer to the Father and Master of youths, his Grace Raphael P’MONY WOKORACH, the Archbishop of Gulu archdiocese, arrived early at the refugee settlement of Palabek to celebrate the founder of the salesian family and also to administer the sacrament of confirmation to a big number of young people (more than 100). A good number of Christians were waiting for him and warmly welcomed him clapping, dancing and shouting with joy along with the brass band team that made the ceremony more colorful and enjoyable.
Two days before the celebration, the Great Pastor of the Archdiocese took time to see what the salesians realize in the settlement. So, he visited the VTC and other activities done in the school, some chapels run by the salesians ; and he also met all the catechists collaborating with the Salesians, before meeting with all the youngsters to be confirmed. In all occasions, the archbishop was unceasingly praising the salesians for their most important presence among the refugees serving them spiritually and in other needs.
On 31st January, day for the confirmation, a big crowd of refugees and citizens as well, were joyfully present for the Eucharistic celebration. Amazingly, the Mass was animated by a mixed choir of members from all tribes and of all corners in the settlement, which is not usual. In his beautiful homily, His Grace Raphael focused his preaching on the great figure of St John Bosco comparing him with the one who, according to the Gospel, is the greatest in heaven. In fact, the saint successfully used his qualities of humility and patience in order to achieve his deep dream of being the father of all youths in need by founding a big congregation in charge of them. He then requested all parents to create a better environment to educate their children so that they could feel free to express their challenges as Don Bosco did. He concluded by wishing all Christians present and especially the confirmands to let them be inspired by the Holy Spirit and also by St John Bosco who will increase the hope of their lives, though they are challenged by many difficulties of their refugee life.
Various gifts were joyfully offered to the “Pastor number One” of Gulu archdiocese and some talks by different people (the head of the catechists, the Parish Parish, Fr William, Fr Uba Rector of the Salesian community) concluded the wonderful celebration, after which everyone shared the festive meal
Father Diomède Nijimbere sdb
