The Bishop of Nebbi Catholic Diocese, Rt Rev Dr Constantine Rupiny, has suspended two priests over alleged misconduct, which he said was contrary to Catholic Church teachings and law.
The announcement was made on Saturday, August 2, 2025, during Rupiny’s first ordination ceremony at the Nebbi Catholic ceremonial grounds. The bishop presided over the ordination of eight new priests and six deacons.
The suspended clerics, Rev Fr Salvatore Adraba and Rev Fr George Angala, have been prohibited from performing any priestly duties within or outside the Nebbi Catholic Diocese until investigations into their alleged misconduct are completed.
“This decision is necessary to preserve the sanctity of priesthood as investigations continue,” Rupiny told the congregation.
Delivering his homily, Rupiny urged the newly ordained priests and deacons to remain grounded in the word of God, reminding them that the role of the priest is to correct doctrinal errors, not to engage in scandals.
“Don’t turn church services into comedy shows. Preach against corruption and bad politics. Christians have respect for priests who are truthful and corruption-free,” he said.
He further cautioned the newly ordained clergy against rebellion, calling on them to uphold obedience to church authority.
“It becomes scandalous when a priest exchanges punches with Christians. Let us remain humble and obedient,” Rupiny added.
Rev Fr Emmanuel Ocokuru, pastoral coordinator of Nebbi Catholic Diocese, encouraged parents to embrace positive parenting as a way of nurturing future vocations.
“Life is worth celebrating if you raise your child in Godly ways. Today, children are no longer faithful to parents and church leaders. A parent whose child is ordained has every reason to celebrate,” he said.
Sam Okaba, head of the laity in the diocese, emphasised that priesthood is not a career but a divine calling.
“Priesthood is a mission of service. It requires commitment, sacrifice, and spiritual discipline,” Okaba stated.
“Good parenting and prayer have opened doors for vocations, and God answers children who are faithful and God-fearing.”
The ordination ceremony marked a milestone in Bishop Rupiny’s leadership, having been installed as the fifth bishop of Nebbi Catholic Diocese on February 22, 2025.
