On Friday, September 13, the new Archbishop of Gulu Archdiocese, His Grace Raphael Wokorach P’Mony, made his first pastoral visit to Lacor Health Training Institute. During his visit, he emphasized the crucial role the institution plays in providing healing and training healthcare providers.
“I am very happy to join you,” the Archbishop began. “I’ve always stopped at the hospital, visiting and as a patient. I am convinced that as the walls and the people look beautiful, so is the level of services given here.”
He highlighted the church’s three-fold mission of spiritual, physical, and mental health, noting that Lacor Health Training Institute has expanded these services. “Believe in what you are doing, do it right and with passion,” he encouraged the staff and students.
The Archbishop also reflected on the contributions of the institution’s founders, acknowledging their efforts and the grace they bestowed. “This is both a grace and a challenge. We must leave it better, not worse than we found it. Every bit and corner of the institution needs your attention. Make an effort to make it better than you found it.”
Addressing the challenges in Uganda’s health sector, he remarked, “Sometimes we lose people because of negligence. You who are trained in Lacor, I believe you will change that narrative, wherever you go. Your training is not just for fun but to take care of every single skill in your hand. Love it.”
He urged the staff to model their service on the image of a caring parent. “Be a parent to every patient or client. As a good parent, you should not want pain and suffering for your children or patients.”
The Archbishop receives a flower bouquet from a student
The Archbishop expressed his gratitude to the management, staff, teachers, non-teaching staff, and students for their warm reception and for maintaining the family spirit of the hospital. “Thank you for keeping the family spirit of the hospital: united, from different dimensions. I pray that God may bless all that you do.”
Accompanying the Archbishop was Fr. Robert Odong, the Education Secretary of Gulu Archdiocese, who called for the construction of a larger hostel to accommodate the growing number of students and the upgrade of the Institute to a degree-awarding institution.
The Archbishop was warmly welcomed by the school chaplain, Fr. Felix Opiyo, the Executive Director, Dr. Cyprian Opira, the Medical Director, Dr. Emintone Odong Ayella, and the Institutional Director, Dr. Martin Ogwang. Also in attendance were the Rector of Paimol Shrine, the Principal, Sr. Betty Anyiri, staff, and students of the Institute.
He was treated to a cake-cutting, gift-sharing, and a luncheon at the Comboni House where the founding sisters first resided.
