The Mass, celebrated on the 17th Sunday in Ordinary Time, was conducted mainly in English and featured lively participation by members of the Arsenal fraternity, who led singing, dancing and other liturgical activities.
The supporters also donated foodstuffs, household items and building materials worth Shs2.2 million to support the parish and its activities, underscoring their commitment to community service alongside their love for football.
The main celebrant, Msgr. Felix Drani, the Episcopal Vicar for Refugees and Migrants in the Catholic Diocese of Arua and an Arsenal supporter, commended the fraternity for choosing to animate the Mass and contribute to the church.
He urged football fans to remain devoted to God, saying their passion for the sport should go hand in hand with faith and positive engagement in society.
“Football should be a uniting factor for the world. I appreciate the Arsenal fraternity for coming to animate this Mass. As football fans, we should also love God,” Drani said.
He also appealed to football referees to remain neutral and impartial, saying fairness is essential for people around the world to enjoy the game.
The colourful celebration attracted Arsenal supporters from different parts of Adjumani, who participated through coordinated singing, dancing and church animation.
Adjumani Resident District Commissioner Swaib Toko, who attended the Mass, used the occasion to raise awareness about issues affecting the district.
He warned residents about increasing cases of dog bites in Adjumani and urged the public to take precautions and promptly report incidents to the relevant authorities.
Toko also sensitised residents on the ongoing National Cleaning Exercise, the dangers of HIV/AIDS and the forthcoming Local Council I elections, calling for responsible participation and peaceful conduct.
Speaking on behalf of the Arsenal supporters, Central Organising Committee chairperson Robert Dragule said the fraternity had gathered to thank God and seek His blessings as they continued supporting their club.
“We have decided to pray to God for giving us Premier League victory. We believe that as Arsenal fans, we should not only come together for football but also for God,” Dragule said.
He announced that the Adjumani Arsenal Football Club victory party is scheduled for August 15, 2026, when supporters hope to celebrate the club's success.
The event highlighted the growing role of organised sports supporters' groups in supporting church activities, promoting community initiatives and fostering unity and peaceful coexistence in Adjumani.