In Pope Francis’ message for the World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation, meant for Sept 1, 2024, the Holy Pontiff has these questions for us to ponder on: “Why is there so much evil in the world? Why so much injustice, so many fratricidal wars that kill children, destroy cities, pollute the environment and leave Mother Earth violated and devastated? These questions trickle down to our communities and families’ doings! There is so much surrounding us that we at times fail to discern what is right from wrong.
Just so we know, the world has good and evil, right and wrong. We also know that in all this, God evokes us to choose the path that brings eternal life. This is however not to indicate that trials and tribulations do not exist. We are reminded thus; Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love Him. (James 1:12)
What is our common cause and worth; in life, we might ask? Many things as Christians call us to action. As a Church, it is not a surprise that we are embroiled in corruption, deception, moral decadence, conflicts, domestic violence, name it. To talk about corruption is an open secret in our community, one that is better talked about than solved. However, the Bible cautions us, thus; “you must not distort justice; you must not show partiality; and you must not accept bribes, for a bribe blinds the eyes of the wise and subverts the cause of those who are in the right” (Deut. 16:19). Yet
we could ask, is the fight against corruption finally here? It is not to say that we often do not practice what we preach, this is meant to be the lived experience.
In this issue, Timothy Kalyegira’s article takes this direction, indicating whether 2024 will be a memorable year, one we could call the Samaritan year, where we can celebrate respect for life, charity for others, justice and help for the needy and impoverished.
Pope Francis notes:”… Creation itself like humanity, was enslaved, albeit through no fault of its own and finds itself unable to fulfill the lasting meaning and purpose for which it was designed.” We acknowledge that we often falter and soil ourselves to our detriment, which is human, yet demanding our conversion.
As the pilgrim Church, what is our reminder thence; to love as Christ did, in love of brother and sister, love for nature and the entire universe. In Pope Francis’ words, “leaving behind the arrogance of those who want to exercise dominion over others and nature itself, reducing the latter to an object to be manipulated and instead embracing the humility of those who care for others and for all of creation.” May we join the Catholic Charismatic Renewal, who have just concluded their jubilee celebration and the newly installed Archbishop of Gulu; Archbishop Raphael Wokorach P’Mony to work for the glory of God, so as to attain fullness of life; that we may all be one, united in Christ, in our common home
