Rt Rev Constantine Rupiny Installed as Fifth Bishop of Nebbi Catholic Diocese

On February 22, 2025, Rt. Rev. Constantine Rupiny was installed as the Fifth Bishop of Nebbi. The event, attended by clergy and dignitaries, emphasized the need for justice, healing, and collaboration with the government to combat poverty. Archbishop Wokorach cautioned against divisive politics, while the Vice President pledged governmental support for the Church’s mission.

On February 22, 2025, the Catholic Diocese of Nebbi celebrated the installation of Rt. Rev. Constantine Rupiny as its Fifth Bishop. This event drew Christians from Uganda and neighboring countries, following the vacancy left by Most Rev. Raphael p’Mony Wokorach’s appointment to a different diocese on March 22, 2024. The Apostolic Nuncio to Uganda, His Excellency Bianco Luigi, confirmed Bishop Rupiny’s appointment to a jubilant congregation at the Diocesan Ceremonial ground, immediately after reading the Pope’s message.

During the ceremony, Archbishop Wokorach, acting as the principal consecrator, urged Bishop Rupiny to lead his flock courageously, as Christ did, assuring him of the Holy Spirit’s protection. The ceremony was also attended by Archbishop Luigi Bianco and Bishop Francis Aquirinus Kibira, who served as co-consecrators. Bishop Rupiny expressed his dedication to serving all the people in the diocese, vowing to collaborate with clergy and laypeople alike, while recognizing both government initiatives and the ongoing challenge of poverty.

Archbishop Wokorach, in his homily, addressed the political divisions impacting the region, cautioning against self-serving politics that hinder development. He highlighted the adverse effects of political interference on infrastructure and essential services, saying, “We have politics that is highly commercialized, divisive, and manipulative instead of serving the common good.” He encouraged Bishop Rupiny to strive for justice and healing among the people, emphasizing that they are the very individuals to whom he is called to minister.

The event was also marked by the attendance of Uganda’s Vice President, Jessica Alupo, who represented President Yoweri Museveni. She offered the government’s support for the Church’s mission and encouraged Bishop Rupiny to serve selflessly. She stated that shepherding the flock is an opportunity for dedicated service and stressed the need for cooperation between governmental and religious leaders to combat poverty, urging continued advocacy for economic inclusivity within the community.

The installation of Rt. Rev. Constantine Rupiny as the Fifth Bishop of Nebbi serves as a significant milestone for the diocese, marked by a strong emphasis on service and commitment amidst challenges. The speeches by Archbishop Wokorach and Vice President Alupo underscored the complex interplay between politics, infrastructure, and community welfare. As the new bishop embarks on his pastoral journey, he is called to foster justice, healing, and collaboration in addressing the pressing issues faced by the people of Nebbi.

Original Source: communications.amecea.org