Hundreds of thousands of pilgrims have braved long journeys and cold weather to gather at Paimol in Agago District for celebrations marking the Solemnity of the Blessed Martyrs Daudi Okello and Jildo Irwa.
The grand celebration was held on October 20, 2026, in Paimol, within the Archdiocese of Gulu, Uganda, and was presided over by the Bishop of Arua Diocese, Rt. Rev. Sabino Ochan Odoki.
The celebration brought together bishops from the Gulu Ecclesiastical Province, including Most Rev. Raphael P’Mony Wokorach, MCCJ, Archbishop of Gulu; Archbishop Emeritus John Baptist Odama; Rt. Rev. Sanctus Lino Wanok of Lira Diocese; Rt. Rev. Sabino Ochan Odoki of Arua Diocese; Rt. Rev. Constantine Rupiny of Nebbi Catholic Diocese; and Rt. Rev. Dominic Eibu of Kotido Diocese.
In his homily, Bishop Ochan Odoki cautioned Ugandans against the misuse of technological advancements, warning that excessive reliance on technology could undermine human judgment and critical thinking. He stressed the importance of recognising and upholding the dignity of every human being, created in the image of God.
The bishop also urged Christians to guard against what he described as the works of the devil, particularly corruption, which he likened to a cancer eating away at societies across the world.
He called on believers to uphold Christian values, integrity and moral responsibility in their daily lives, emphasising the need to resist practices that undermine justice and the common good.
The annual pilgrimage honours Blessed Daudi Okello and Blessed Jildo Irwa, two young Ugandan catechists who were martyred in Paimol in 1918 for their Christian faith. Their witness continues to inspire Catholics and other pilgrims who travel to the shrine to pray, reflect and renew their commitment to the Gospel.
This year’s celebration was particularly significant for Bishop Ochan Odoki, who also marked the 20th anniversary of his episcopal ordination during the same event.
The gathering brought together pilgrims, clergy, religious leaders and faithful from different parts of Uganda and beyond to commemorate the martyrs’ enduring legacy of faith, courage and sacrifice.
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