The Bishop of Lira Diocese, Rt. Rev. Lino Wanok, has called on Christians and all Ugandans to uphold peace, reject violence and manipulation, and respect the dignity of every person as the country approaches a critical civic period.
In his Christmas Pastoral Message issued on Thursday evening, Bishop Wanok said the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ coincides with a moment that demands moral responsibility, national reflection, and ethical conduct.
“The Word of God invites us to reflect deeply and to act responsibly,” Bishop Wanok said, noting that Christmas is not only a spiritual celebration but also a time for Ugandans to examine their behaviour, choices, and responsibilities as citizens.
Drawing from Gospel accounts in Matthew 1 and Luke 1, the Bishop said the biblical figures of Joseph and Mary offer relevant lessons for society today.
“Joseph is presented as a just man who chose righteousness, mercy, and obedience to God in a moment of uncertainty,” he said. “In Mary, we see humble yet courageous faith—one that trusts God to uplift the lowly and guide history with justice.”
Bishop Wanok emphasised that lasting peace begins at the personal level, stressing that moral values must guide both private and public life.
“Peace begins in the heart. Power is a responsibility, not a possession. Every human person has God-given dignity,” he said, warning against the abuse of authority for personal or political gain.
He cautioned communities against violence, falsehoods, and manipulation, urging citizens to protect their conscience during the election and festive period.
“We must form and safeguard our conscience and reject violence, lies, manipulation, and hatred in all their forms,” the Bishop said.
He also appealed to families and local communities to remain safe spaces for dialogue and mutual respect.
“Let our homes, parishes, and villages remain places of dialogue and respect,” he urged.
Expressing concern for vulnerable groups, Bishop Wanok warned against exploiting the poor and the youth due to poverty, desperation, or frustration.
“No one should be exploited because of poverty or frustration,” he said, calling for collective responsibility in protecting those at risk.
The Bishop further reaffirmed the Church’s role as a neutral institution, cautioning against drawing religious spaces into partisan politics.
“The Church must remain a non-partisan space of prayer, guidance, and reconciliation,” he said, adding that the Church is renewing its commitment to healing, solidarity, and peace-building through Caritas and Small Christian Communities.
