Gulu (Fides Service)- The reopening of the major seminary in Alokolum archdiocese of Gulu in war torn northern Uganda is a “sign for hope for the future of the Church and peace in this region” said the Archbishop John Baptist Odama.
“The seminary was closed two years ago because of the civil war” the Archbishop explained Odama. “Now the situation has improved we have decided to reopen the seminary to give the people a concrete sign of hope and confidence for the future”. Students and teachers had to move in 2003 to Bukalasa near Masaka, southern Uganda.
The new academic year will officially start on 15 October, but the Archbishop has already visited the Seminary. “I greeted the staff and encouraged them in their activity so important for the life of the Church” the Archbishop said. In his homily he spoke of the importance of peace and justice addressing in particular those responsible for destruction and insecurity in the area. The Archbishop was welcomed by the rector Fr. Sabino Odoki and several other priests.
The seminary has 150 students and 14 teachers. “Our students are the future of our Church. Our diocese continued to function despite many difficulties. Now we are preparing for a Eucharistic Congress 4-11 December on the theme of Holiness. I have already issued a Pastoral letter on this subject” the Archbishop said
Gulu has been at the centre of years of fighting between the Lord’s resistance Army rebels and army troops. The rebels are mainly Acholi who have fought since 1989 against president Yoweri Museveni who took power 1986 overthrowing a mainly Acholi military junta. Former militia took refuge in Sudan and formed various militia groups including LRA. The Church has also been a victim of the violence. A group of seminarians were taken hostage on May 11, 2003 at Lachor seminary and many priests have been killed in these years of war. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides 27/9/2005 righe 36 parole 420)