By Patriot Corps
During Sunday Mass at St. Philip Catholic Church in Agaya, Mr Elobu Patrick, the area catechist, expressed concerns over the declining attendance of his congregation, attributing it to the poor state of the church building, particularly its water-soaked floors after rainfall. Mr Elobu Patrick explained that many congregants shy away from discussing the much-needed roofing repairs, fearing the estimated cost of UGX 22 million.
After five years of struggle, a glimmer of hope emerged when Mr. Edeku Peter Edopu made a generous donation of 100 iron sheets, as requested by the church leadership. This contribution was warmly received by Aboyo Stella Rose, the church chairperson, who expressed deep gratitude, assuring Mr Edeku Peter Edopu that God would bless him abundantly and guide him in his future political journey. “Your kindness will not go unnoticed; the Lord who opened your heart to help us will open doors for you, including your way to parliament,” she said.
Reflecting on earlier efforts, Mr Elobu Patrick also shared that he, along with 10 others, had received vital support from Mr Edeku Peter Edopu during their catechism studies in Bukedea, which greatly helped them complete their training. In response, Mr Edeku Peter Edopu recalled that he had facilitated this support through his Tubur coordinator, Rev. Simon Peter Ogwang, and expressed joy at meeting Mr Elobu Patrick , the first of the catechists to personally connect with him. He urged Mr Elobu Patrick to use his knowledge and experience to benefit the congregation of Agaya and wherever else God may lead him.
Later that day, Mr Edeku Peter Edopu extended his goodwill to Ogwelai PAG Church in Luzira Cell, Arapai Sub-county, which had also faced long-standing construction challenges. He donated 20 bags of cement for plastering the church, addressing one of their pressing needs alongside repairs for doors and windows.
At both churches, Mr Edeku Peter Edopu emphasized that his dedication to serving the community is driven by a sense of calling, not politics. He assured the congregants that 2026 would be a turning point for Dakabela and encouraged them to prepare for the future with faith and unity. “If God is for us, no one can be against us,” he proclaimed, urging the congregations to reflect on the path ahead as they approach the elections.
Mr Edeku Peter Edopu also touched on the critical issue of household income and socioeconomic transformation. He pointed out that the financial struggles within the congregation are closely tied to the underdevelopment of their churches. “A church cannot thrive when its people are struggling financially. The congregation must first rise economically to support the church, whether through tithes or contributions for building projects,” he remarked. He urged the faithful to engage in government initiatives like the Parish Development Model and income-generating activities to uplift their households and their churches.
In his closing remarks, Mr Edeku Peter Edopu promised to continue supporting the churches and the people of Dakabela, encouraging them to stand together in solidarity and look forward to a brighter future, both spiritually and economically.